The life of every living thing is in his hand, and the breath of every human being. Job 12:10 (NLT)
Dear heavenly Father, I am so thankful that you, quite literally, have the whole world in your hand. That frees me to acknowledge the obvious—I don’t. I don’t have control over a lot of things. But as I come to you this morning with empty hands, I do so, not to grab what isn’t mine to control, but to raise my hands in praise and surrender to you.
Father, I don’t have control over the number of days I have left before you call me home; but fill the ones you’ve marked for me with as much of your grace, love, and wisdom as possible. I don’t have control over the “messy” feelings and disappoint others carry in their hearts; but free me to stay present with kindness, and not withdraw into a “safer” more controllable climate.
Father, I don’t have control over important decisions to be made by dear friends; but constantly remind me you’re the Author of our stories, not merely the passive garbage man who has to clean up our messes. I don’t have control over how much pain and suffering my loved ones will experience in life; but forgive me for the moments when I think you don’t care, or am afraid you will give them more heartache than grace.
Father, I don’t have control over people and circumstances that impact my vocation and future; but you do, and you don’t need me as your consulting partner. I don’t have control over the global economy, the upcoming American presidential election, or the next terrorist attack; but give me laser sharp vision of your Fatherly self, joyfully perched on the occupied throne of heaven. That’s all I need. You are God, and I am so very not; and you are good, all the time—all the time, you are good. So very Amen I pray, in Jesus’ glorious and grace-full name.
