Control is something most of us want.  Dare I say we all want control to some degree?  But control is an often illusive idea, and the tighter we try to hold onto it, the less control we have.

Horseback riders often literally grasp for control.   When they feel out of control or worried about balance the first thing they they want to do is grab the reins or grip with their legs.  The irony is, gripping the reins usually results in the horse getting tense or scared, giving the rider less control.  Gripping with your legs takes your balance off center, causing a pivot point too far forward, and is more likely cause the rider to fall.  The more riders grasp for control, the less control they actually have.

Life can be like that.  The more I try to control my oppositional child, the more opposition I create.  Instead, building relationship with her is key.

What about our faith lives?  More of the same.  The more we grasp for control, the more likely we are to be hit with the realization that we were never in control to begin with.  Instead, we must trust God and “give God the reins.”  Turn your concerns over to God and talk with God about your plans, asking God for help and guidance.  You just might enjoy letting God be in control.  Instead of grasping for control, work on your relationships and learn to breathe out.  Read Luke 12:1-34, and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally!!

Annie