Releasing Control

Releasing Control

Jun 28, 2023

Bible in a Year: Job 11-12; Acts 9


"And all the trees will know that it is I, the Lord, who cuts the tall tree down and makes the short tree grow tall. It is I who makes the green tree wither and gives the dead tree new life. I, the Lord, have spoken, and I will do what I said!" — Ezekiel 17:24


Today's Scripture & Insight: Ezekiel 17:22-24


For years, Tom had been a successful entrepreneur. From a young age, he'd learned to manage his businesses with precision, always staying in control of every aspect. Yet, when he faced a series of failures, he found himself struggling to keep everything together. It was in that moment of vulnerability that his friend Mark shared something profound with him, "Tom, to be truly successful, we have to give control back to God."


Ezekiel 17:24 offers a powerful illustration of God's sovereignty. The Lord declares that He is the one who brings down the high tree and makes the low tree flourish. The imagery conveys a simple yet profound truth: God is in control.


In our lives, we often hold on to control, believing that we can manage everything on our own. Yet, just as Tom discovered, there are moments when our plans fail, and we realize our need to surrender control back to God.


When we relinquish control, we're not giving up; we're acknowledging that God's ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9). We are recognizing that God, in His wisdom and love, is more capable of guiding our lives than we are.


Are you, like Tom, struggling to maintain control in your life? Consider this as an invitation to trust in God's sovereign plan. Release your tight grip, and let God steer your life. It's in His hands that you will truly flourish.


Reflect & Pray


What areas of your life do you need to surrender control to God? How does it feel to trust in His sovereignty?


Lord, help us to surrender control to You, trusting in Your perfect plan for our lives. Teach us to lean on Your wisdom and love, knowing that You want the best for us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.