If God is in control of all things, what is my role?
I was terrified this morning when my dog (that we recently adopted) ran across the street right in front of a moving car. Thankfully the car saw her and was coming to a stop anyway. I am also thankful that the driver kept her eyes on my dog as she darted back toward home – again - in front of the car!
My dog, Buttercup, was totally oblivious to the danger. In fact, when we got into the house she sat attentively right in front of the treats, asking me to reward her for her outdoor behavior! My initial instinct was to punish her. But, instead, I handed her a treat, thankful that she was safe.
I wonder how many times my day-to-day actions horrify my Father in heaven. Many of which, probably pass right by my mind without a second thought.
Romans 12:2: Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will.
My role as a follower of Christ is to continually seek God. To renew my soul through His life-giving Word. It’s a daily sacrifice of breaking my sinful nature, laying down my own agenda (even if just for a moment), and seek Him.
Last night I was reading in a new devotional that I just picked up over the holiday called He is My Freedom by Debbie Alsdorf. She reminded me of the awesome truths found in Isaiah 9:6:
For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
The truth is that God holds authority for ALL THINGS on His shoulders. Which includes my life – everything about me. Debbie asks readers “How does that truth help you today?” After my thankful reply I wrote, “I wonder… why do I allow myself to stray away, to not seek Him daily.” I mean, why wouldn’t I want to put my life in Jesus’ hands? Look at the 4 phrases listed in Isaiah 9:6.
- He is the best listener and gives perfect advise.
- He is mighty, strong, all powerful.
- He is always there and constant source of every need.
- God is just, and grants peace.
He is everything I need and more. God promises to work all things for good, Romans 8:28, even my mistakes.
Just as I have promised to care for my new adoptee in the house, I need to take time to seek MY owner. I must check in for my daily training and guidance. I will sit as His feet, in spirit and truth, learning to lean on Him and less of me.
Looking forward to hearing What’s on Your Mind! It’s YOUR turn. Post your thoughts on God and control and link it here. Also, please mention Heart Reflections on your post so others can join in. If you don’t have a blog, plug in your conversation through the comments!
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Click on What’s on Your Mind ‘09 for next week’s theme and host home!
Thanks Shane for doing this! I will stop by tomorrow to fully read your post and the others too. I love to ponder, so this is right up my alley.
Beautiful. It’s also so frustrating as I realize how often I fall short of his plans for me. I pray for … something.
I’m glad your dog was OK.
And I am so grateful for the grace of God which saves me every time I run out into the middle of the road!
I agree totally when you said: “My role as a follower of Christ is to continually seek God. To renew my soul through His life-giving Word. It’s a daily sacrifice of breaking my sinful nature, laying down my own agenda (even if just for a moment), and seek Him.”
My post is pretty similar. I guess great minds think alike, LOL.
Thanks for hosting What’s On Your Mind.
If God is in control, what’s my role? Hmmm…to keep in step with his will; otherwise, my will leads me down a path of less than perfect intention. When this happens, it doesn’t mean he’s lost control; it simply means I’ve lost control and chosen to exercise his gift to me (free will) in the matter. I will ponder this further and read some other entries. I sometimes think we are prone to use the truth that “God is in control” as our excuse to live as we please. After all, he’s going to work it out in the end; still and yet, I wonder about the many blessings I’ve missed in this life because I’ve chosen to do it my way over his.
So much to think about. Thanks for doing this, Shane. God’s peace and blessing to you this night. ~elaine
Shane,
Great post. It is a daily habit of going back to our Master to be “trained up.” It certainly is a matter of trust. We say we believe God is trustworthy, but do we believe it enough to let go?
Hope you’re doing well tonight. God bless.
Kelli
I love everybody’s responses! That definitely clears up my question – Awesome!!! I have to say that I completely connected with the dog story. I am totally Shane’s dog right now. I’m fighting with my husband. I am a stupid dog out on the loose. Hairs standing on end, fangs showing ready for round 2 with my husband over some old bone. All the while My Master is calling for me with a house full of food. “..I am the bread of life…” John 6:35 I know what there is for me if I come home, but I want that bone first. Why can’t I see that even if I win the bone it won’t really be satisfying. Hopefully it doesn’t take getting skunked or hit by a car to finally come home tail between my legs. Good thing My Master is waiting with a treat and not a good whack or worse a locked door like I deserve! There is my control the choice between running loose and coming home. The choice seems obvious yet sometimes it is so hard. Hopefully I learn and start coming home sooner and sooner when called. Maybe one day I’ll wisen up and when the door of tempation swings open I’ll just stay laying at My Master’s feet:)
Until then I need you guys to remind me how good it is to be home.
Hey, Shane! This is a great post! Lots to ponder and pray. I want God to be in control, but I have few issues that I keep giving Him and then taking them back!! I need to stop and simply walk away and let HIM! Thanks for this post.
Blessings,
Susan
I am so thankful that God is in control. As His child, I know that NOTHING touches my life without His knowing. At times I take the reigns and I miss out on God’s best because I run ahead of Him, but when I allow God to be in control, my part is surrender, wait and trust. Sometimes we (God and I) get to the same end, but when I force my control I take paths I might have avoided had I rested in Him.
One area of my life that is always a battle for control is my mind. Learning to keep every thought captive under God’s control is ongoing.
Thanks for letting me share today.
Love & prayers,
Joy