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PROGRAM D-8143
What are the uncontrollable things or people in your life right now? I’ve certainly done my share of wishing, fretting, complaining, and trying to manipulate the uncontrollable.
Did you ever think about this: When we are trying to control the uncontrollable person in our lives, what we are actually doing is allowing that person, by our actions, to destroy our joy. We are at their mercy! Our happiness, peace, and/or contentment depend on their behavior, performance or attitude.
It’s hard to learn not to try to control the uncontrollable. I remember a time when I had to deal with a truly uncontrollable situation; I kept trying and trying to bring it under control. I was frustrated, couldn’t sleep well, and didn’t function nearly as productively as usual because I was so consumed with trying to fix what wasn’t “fixable.” Finally, I heard that inner voice saying, “You will never be able to tie a bow on this package”—meaning no matter what I did, the situation would not improve. I had to let it go without a solution, without an ending, and without a “happily ever after.” That is very hard for me to do.
You, too? Oh, but those times teach us to trust in our Heavenly Father; they teach us to recognize how weak and helpless we truly are; they teach us humility, faith, and dependence on God.
Remember this: When the uncontrollable things or people in your life are making you miserable, it is because you allow them to do that to you. They can’t keep you on that roller coaster if you decide to get off. How do you get off? By choice; by a set of your will; by much prayer; and by the power of God’s Spirit within you.
What are you facing in your life right now that is uncontrollable? There is undoubtedly something or someone—maybe more than one. How have you been coping with that uncontrollable thing or person? In fear, frustration, anger, or despair?
I have great news for you today: If you will focus on controlling the controllable, you will be able to cope with the uncontrollable. I want you to know that you do not have to continue being a prisoner of the uncontrollable things and people in your life.
Are you willing to let go of that uncontrollable thing or person, and admit you cannot control or change them? Are you tired of living in denial, or trying to run away? Are you ready to forsake the bitterness and vengeance that has built up over the uncontrollable thing or person? That’s where it all begins—in your mind and in your will.
But God can’t do a thing until you confess that it is beyond your control. Will you do that today—right now?