A Choice

As Christ followers, none of are what we will become, but neither are we what we once were. All of us are in a state of flux and yet, we are new creations—not reconditioned or remodeled—but brand spanking new (2 Cor. 5:17). In the mind of God we have already arrived, but in most our minds we feel lost somewhere along the way.

I know in my head what the Scripture teaches, and believe with all my heart it’s true. And yet I struggle with the uncertainties and stress of life. I know God is control but secretly inside I wish I were. I’m not, and if I ever had any illusions of grandeur, God is dashing them on the rocks of reality even as I write this.

I’m like you—we’re all made out of the same stuff. I want to be in control, but I’m not qualified—not strong enough—in a two words—not God. Therefore, moment by moment I (and you as well) must release my stranglehold on what I think is safe and secure to step into the destiny God has chosen for me. To step into I must step out of—to enter I must exit—to go forward I must leave behind. That’s just the way it is—no exceptions.

It’s Monday as I write this. In a matter of moments with the reception of two different phone calls I’ve gone from the heights of exhilaration to the pits of despair (not to mention bouncing off the jagged rocks of anger, rage, nausea, and abject terror in between). I have a choice to make—trust God or trust in my own power, plans, and personality. The solution is quite simple—I have no real power except over how I choose to respond, I don’t have a plan B, and let’s face it my personality won’t get me close to where I want or need to go.

Therefore, it’s let go and let God, or…well, there’s really not an “or” option. I can act like I’m in control, which is what most people do, and die prematurely of some unpronounceable stress related disorder, or pull my hair out and run screaming incoherently into the woods—or I can rest in the absolute peace that comes from knowing God is in control and fully able to do what needs to be done when it needs to be done.

Hmmm…I choose that option.