The life of every living thing is in his hand, and the breath of every human being. Job 12:10 (NLT)
Heavenly Father, we are so thankful that you, quite literally, have the whole world in your hand. That frees us to acknowledge the obvious. We don’t. We don’t have control over a lot of things we’d love to manage. But as we come to you this Thursday morning, we do so, not to grab what isn’t ours, but to raise our hands in praise and surrender to you.
Father, we don’t have control over the number of days we have left before you call us home; but fill the ones you’ve marked for us with as much of your grace, love, and wisdom as possible. We don’t have control over the “messy” feelings and disappointments others carry in their hearts; but free us to stay present with kindness, and not withdraw into a “safer” more controllable climate.
We don’t have control over what people think and say about us; but may what YOU think and say about us be our most defining and liberating reality. You call us your beloved, desired, delighted in daughters and sons. Forgive us for under-believing you and over-believing what mere people say.
Father, we don’t have control over important decisions to be made; but constantly remind us you’re the Author of our stories, not merely the passive garbage man who has to clean up our messes.
We don’t have control over how much pain and suffering we, or our loved ones, will experience in life; but forgive us for thinking you don’t care, or fear you’ll give us more heartache than grace.
Father, we don’t have control over people and circumstances that impact our jobs and future; but you do, and you don’t need us as your consulting partners.
We don’t have control over the global economy, the American presidency, or the next international crisis; but give us laser sharp vision of your Fatherly self, joyfully perched on the throne of heaven. That’s all we need. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ glorious and grace-full name.
