Damage Control: Avoiding Distance From God in Hard SeasonsSample

Release Control

When we first noticed a shift in our friendship, we immediately tried to fast forward to the part of the story where we were back on the same page. Rather than looking to God to guide us toward restoration, we tried to control the situation by focusing on what the other person needed to do. When our attempts to control failed, we resorted to taking offense and blaming each other for our inability to reconcile. This was one of our biggest mistakes.

As humans with autonomy and free will, we seemingly have full control over every aspect of our lives. Hard times reveal otherwise - they prove how little is within our control. When we are faced with these challenging moments, our tendency is to grasp for control to help reduce our fear and uncertainty. But in the face of adversity, though it may seem counterintuitive, we are presented with an opportunity to release control. As we loosen our grip and begin to trust God, we can more clearly see Him in the midst of our circumstances.

Scripture tells us God is the potter and we are the clay. This means our role is to yield to the hands of the potter. We don’t have to try to control outcomes or stress about how our lives and relationships will ultimately turn out. In our waiting, we can trust that the end result is being carefully molded in God’s hands. And when He is finished, our lives and relationships will be a reflection of His perfect touch.

If we believe that God is ultimately in control of our lives, then what do we control? We are responsible for our inputs—the daily decisions that dictate where our focus, time, and energy are directed. And we don't have to manage these inputs alone. We can turn to God for guidance, asking Him to help us make better daily decisions.

Today, instead of focusing on the outcome (how your situation ends), consider focusing on your inputs (daily decisions) by reflecting on these questions:

• What do you prioritize daily?
• How do you spend your free time?
• Where do you focus the majority of your energy and effort?
• How can you yield to what God is doing in your life this season?

We can influence outcomes but we don’t have the final say, God does. And that truth is the best news for our lives and relationships.

Reflection: What is it that you are trying to control in your own life that you need to release back to God?