Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- July 23, 2012
“So when the Midianite merchants came by, his brothers pulled Joseph up out of the cistern and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.” Genesis 37:28
There are decisions made by self-centered souls that directly influence the lives of those in the wake of their influence. It may be a father who abuses alcohol or a mother who is unfaithful to her husband. Children may find themselves caring for their mom and dad prematurely, because of their parent’s unwise financial decisions. The boss’s decision to pass over a more qualified person affects that individual and related team members. Decisions out of our control are not to control us, but cause us to trust Christ’s control.
So, how will we react when we are directly impacted by another’s detrimental decision or agonizing indecisiveness? Will we let go of control when decisions made are out of our control? Joseph could have become a victim, spending his whole life trying to avenge the abusive treatment from his brothers, but instead he chose to fear God and forgive man. We are wise to give over to God those who’ve harmed us with their irresponsible actions.
“But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children. ” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.” Genesis 50:19-21
When you give over control of decisions which are out of your control, you are free to focus on God’s purpose for your predicament. He specializes in taking sticky situations and smoothing them over with His calming care. The Holy Spirit’s work, through you, goes to procuring peace in another’s heart, where arguments will only aggravate. Like a creative cook, you are Christ’s sous chef who serves up an appetizing meal of hope, love and healing.
You exhale relief once you release resentment. Your brow unfurrows when you forgive. Your mind is at peace when you enlist God as a peacemaker. Your spirit becomes strong under the influence of humility. As you decide to let go of control of decisions that are out of your control, the Holy Spirit takes control. His control leads to His bounyiful blessings. Recognizing Christ’s control gives Him glory and promotes praise and thanksgiving!
“He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed.” Psalm 107:29
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I trust you to control these matters that are out of my control.
Related Readings: Matthew 8:26; Philippians 3:20-21; 4:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Post/Tweet this today: Will we let go of control when decisions are made out of our control? #control #trust
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Perfect.
Thank you – this is so perfect
so true & awesome!!
I needed this today to go on my job with peace..
Let it be, Lord! Let it be.
Boyd…Thanks …great message
I have great concern …that that has grown to contempt -related to the out of control and unwise decision making in America at this time.
I believe that the “mountains” of bad-decisions reflect the spiritual condition of America
Thanks for the re-direct:
“Decisions out of our control are not to control us, but cause us to trust Christ’s control.”
…”focus on God’s purpose for your predicament” …”chose to fear God and forgive man”
…”HE IS WORTHY” Place your trust in HIM alone.
Contrary to the mindset of the multitudes of self-interested, self-serving, self-leaning, GOD holds history in His hands…HE uses princes…presidents…peoples of all nations for HIS purposes.
In His Light, Fay
“Your mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. Your righteousness is like the great mountains, Your judgments are a great deep. O Lord, You preserve man and beast. How precious is Your loving-kindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings. They are abundantly satisfied with the fullness of Your house, And You give them drink from the river of Your pleasures. For with You is the fountain of life, In Your light we see light.” ~ PS 36:5-9
I really needed this this morning. I have felt betrayed and disrespected due to a decision made by someone I love. This message brings such relief to my mind and heart. “Decisions out of our control are not to control us, but cause us to trust Christ’s control.”
…”focus on God’s purpose for your predicament” …”chose to fear God and forgive man”
Thank you.