Is control an illusion?

How much control do we actually have?

Few of us would admit to being controlling, although most of us can think of at least one ‘control freak’.

When we feel misunderstood, shut down, or ridiculed, its tempting to try and claw some power back.

But the only one who truly has all power – and has the right to do as he chooses – doesn’t take pleasure in controlling our lives like a puppeteer.

God is in control of the world, but he still gives us choices. 

It’s a baffling paradox that He could destroy Earth in a day yet still allows his plans to be worked out through us over time.

He works through each and every situation we find ourselves in.

God has given us a degree of choice, but there are so many things we can’t control.

We’re not in control of death, no matter how many medical advances there are.

We’re not in control of who will love us.

We’re not in control of whether we’ll meet the perfect guy or girl.

Whether we’ll fall pregnant. 

Or what will happen to our baby once we do.

We’re not in control of our children’s personalities, though we can choose how we parent them.

And we’re not in control of who’ll walk into our lives tomorrow – though we can choose how we respond to them.

Life seems a pendulum of control… and no control at all.

God is in control – yes. 

And I rest in that truth.

But my loving God also gives me the freedom to choose Him.

He meets me in the person of Jesus Christ with a gentle invitation.

Jesus is the face of God – “the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being” (Hebrews 1:3).

Meeting him meant that I gave up control of my life, and allowed him to take over.

But, unlike a dominating parent or a manipulative friend, Jesus walks alongside me, gently guiding me. Yes, he’s in control. But he also gives me choice.

I’ll never fully understand God till I meet him face.

But I trust that he’s both powerful and good.

And that makes him superior to all the world leaders grasping for status right now.

And one day, they too will fall on their knees at the sight of true power and ultimate love.

Come, Lord Jesus.