The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.Psalm 145:18-19
This truth is a salve to my heart this morning. I’m so quick to want to take things into my own hands; yet, over and over, God gently redirects me to:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him,and he will make your paths straight.”Proverbs 3:5-6
Why is trusting so hard?
I think it’s safe to level with you and admit that it’s not easy to trust. In general, I struggle to release control; whether it’s a matter of releasing responsibility to others, counting on someone to come through or relying on God for the answer, I’d much prefer to take the reigns myself. (At least then I’d have something to grip onto when I drive the whole horse-cart off the cliff.)
The whole idea of releasing control is not easy. Fear of the unknown and the desire to prevent it seems innate in us. I get the picture a passenger bracing their feet against the floorboards with arms fully extended from the dash while the driver makes a quick stop in traffic. Even though that passenger can do nothing to stop the car from crashing, the inner desire for control ignores rational logic and causes the passenger to take hold of anything within reach in order to to feel some sliver of security.
The honest truth is that I’m like that. In the face of trouble, I disregard rational logic, tensing up and convincing myself that I’m in control. When in reality, I’m powerless to change my circumstances.
What’s the alternative?
Having been in the driver’s seat during one of those tension-filled traffic moments, I know how it feels to see your passenger contorting in all sorts of shapes and squealing high pitches that border on inaudible frequencies — all the while, I’m calm because I know that the vehicle is completely in my control. All the squirming and squawking from the other side of the car is unnecessary and communicates a lack of trust.
The alternative to being anxious is to release control.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.Philippians 4:6
Psalm 145:18-19 is consolation that God is near when I bring my petitions to Him. Philippians 4:6 reminds me to be thankful in the process. Proverbs 3:5-6 gives hope that as I surrender, God will guide my path.
May the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, guard your heart and mind in Christ. Think on Him and let your worries rest.