Made For This -- Out of Control

What we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake. For God, who said, 'Let light shine out of darkness,' made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God's glory displayed in the face of Christ.

2 Corinthians 4: 5-6

Please read "Out of Control" in Made For This (pages 17-21).

Well... I don't care for the title of this day very much. Do you?

I can't think of anything I hate more than feeling out of control. This is a good spot for me to tell you a little story. :)

Made For This is the fourth book study I've led for Soul Sisters. For the first three studies, I did my preparation ahead of time. I read the books, created daily devotions, and typed them out long before the study began. Once summer arrived, all I had to do was copy and paste each day's assignment for the ladies to read.

This summer, I knew God was asking me to do something different. Every time I began to prepare, I felt Him urge me to wait. See, in the past I was prepared, but I was never really part of the study. I was too far ahead. This time, I'm not even one day ahead. I'm preparing the night before, and I'm experiencing some anxiety in the process.

What if I get behind?

What if I have a busy day and can't write?

What if, what if, what if?

I wonder if God ever tires of my "what if" situations.

Today's reading was a great reminder that He is in control. Not only that, He sees the end at the same time as the beginning. When He asks us to do something, He knows for certain how it will be necessary instruction for future assignments.

Sometimes being out of control is exactly what we need. When we must fully trust a completely faithful God, our hearts are better for it. Out of control is cardio and strength training combined for our soul. We are always better because of the training.

Now, complete pages 22, 23, and 24 in your book. Take the time, sisters. These journaling activities are important to full participation in this journey. Enjoy our song while you work.

Heavenly Father, it's really hard to feel out of control. Really! Hard! But, today I'm reminded that it's probably the truest place to reside. The reminder that I can't actually control anything and You control everything is necessary. So, here we are in day three, and we are already confessing our GIANT need for You. Thank you for holding all things in place. Thank you for inviting us play our part in Your Kingdom. Help us to be OK with feeling out of control. Cause us to find rest in the certainty of Your grip. Amen.

For those that don't have the book yet.... (questions from pages 22-24)

Recall a time when you were glad God trumped you in your life.

Describe an experience that helped you to realize that your life was completely out of your control.

Where is your faith currently being tested?

What precious thing might you have missed if you had been afraid to risk? Take a moment to give thanks for that, and ask God to empower you to continue living for things you can't see yet.

The question everyone asks themselves when looking over the cliff, before jumping into the unknown deep, is what do I have to lose? What are you most afraid of losing in this life? List under each of these subjects: comfort, success, approval, acceptance, other.

All of this comes down to identity. Who are you apart from your things, your image, your people, and your plans? Are you secure alone with God? Freedom comes through letting go.

Read 2 Corinthians 4: 1-18.

In this letter to the Corinthians, how did Paul's understanding of Christ and the gospel affect his view of himself?, the purpose of his life?, the way he suffers?

After reading this passage, consider these answers...

Who are You, Lord?

What do You want for me?