LETTING GO OF CONTROL
Bernadette Keene
Today’s Scripture: “God sits above the circle of the earth. The people are like grasshoppers to Him! He spreads out the heavens like a curtain and makes his tent from them. He judges the great people of the world and brings them all to nothing.” Isaiah 40:22-23, NLT
Theme: I don’t have to stress about being in control because God’s got this!
SURPRISED BY GOD
Of all the hiking I’ve done in North Carolina and Tennessee, the most memorable hikes led me to encounter some of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve ever seen. While I have many more to see, my favorite so far is Crabtree Falls. I like to hike this trail in reverse because walking up on the waterfall after a strenuous hike feels like a gift.
The first time I saw Crabtree Falls, it literally took my breath away. I was sweaty and gross, filthy from sliding around in the red dirt, overcome with heat. And then, there it was! I stopped and was frozen in awe. It looked like a million tiny diamonds falling to the earth from an unseen source.
In that moment, I connected with Psalm 42:7 in a way I have never experienced before. It says, “Deep calls to deep at the sound of Your waterfalls; All Your breakers and Your waves have rolled over me” (NASB1995). I was overwhelmed with emotion as the spirit in me connected with God’s presence in His creation. It is in these moments that I am reminded of how big God is and that nothing I face is too hard for Him. No feeling, no failure, no doubt or trial is too big or too hard for Him. In these moments I can open my hands and heart and release my desire to maintain control and rest in God's presence.
In the movie Gravity, after all that she has been through, Dr. Stone has a moment of awe as she catches a glimpse of planet earth. Despite her circumstances, she experiences peace as she gazes upon Gods magnificent creation.
CONNECTING WITH GOD IN HIS CREATION
Though I don’t know what others believe about nature and connecting with God, but I know I feel His Spirit there as my eyes take in the beauty that He has so intricately carved out to stir my soul and draw me closer to Him. Yes, deep calls to deep in those moments. The Spirit of God in His creation calls to the spirit in me “as his waves and surging tides sweep over me” (Psalm 42:8b, NLT).
You may be touched--as I am--by God’s revelation in nature, or in music, or some other creative art. You may sense His power in the stars or the sun bursting through the clouds. You may be amazed at His answers to your prayers. Treasure these reassurances that He sees you, He loves you, and He can handle whatever comes into your life.
Make It Personal: Are there any areas of your life that you feel are out of control? Ask the Lord to reveal to you anything that you need to release and give back to Him. Trust that He wants only good for you in all circumstances. Let go and consider the works of His hands, the moon and the stars that He set in place, knowing that He who sits above the circle of the earth holds you in the palm of His hand.
Pray: Lord, I long for a deeper connection with You. Help me to slow down, take a breath, and notice You and the gifts You provide when deep calls to deep. Help me to release control and trust You in all things. Amen.
Read: Proverbs 16:3-4; Psalm 96:7-9; Job 11:13-19
Weekly Memory Verse: “The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked.” Proverbs 24:16, NLT