“The life of every living thing is in his hand, and the breath of every human being.” Job 12:10
Heavenly Father, though I sang it long before I believed it—you DO have the whole world in your hands. This frees me to relax my sweaty palms and white-knuckled fingers from all kinds of things I’d like to control but can’t. Instead, on this first Thursday in September 2026, I raise my grateful hands to you in praise and surrender.
I don’t have control over the number of my pre-heaven days, just fill the ones you’ve determined for me with as much of your grace, love, and wisdom as possible.
I don’t have control over the choices loved-ones and friends make, but you are the Writer and Righter of their stories too.
I don’t have control over how much suffering and sadness anyone will experience in life. But forgive me for thinking you will give more heartache than grace and more pain than your presence.
I don’t have control over cells, circumstances, and conditions that impact the rest of my life but you do. You didn’t call me as your consulting partner or coach, just to be your beloved, trusting child.
I don’t have control over the health and growth of Jesus’ Bride, the maddening state of American politics, Ukraine’s vulnerable future—and any of a number of things that can ramp up my fear, ignite my ire, and rob me of joy. But along with “the little, tiny baby”—you have all these things in your hand too.
Father, just keep giving each of us a laser-sharp vision of Jesus joyfully, lovingly, sovereignly seated on the throne of heaven (Rev.4). Keep your Spirit’s witness to our “Sonship” loud, sweet, and transforming (Rom.8). Keep making the Gospel more precious, powerful, and personal to us. Hallelujah, thank you, and So Very Amen.
