Posted: 19 January 2025

From a sermon given on 21 January 2025:

Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?
(Matthew 6:27)

There are many things that happen in this life that we seem not to have much control of. Worrying about what you cannot change is an exercise in futility. By so doing you cannot add a cubic to your stature. The things that you cannot control are opportunities to trust God. There are things that will happen that are not yours to fix or control.

What part of your current situation feels most beyond your control? Could it be the toxic environment at your work place, the tense political environment, the breath taking electronic, print and social media breaking news, what the future holds for you and your family? "How much do you worry about things you cannot change? Are there things in the midst of your current chaos that you do have some control over? How much does the lack of control over some things keep you from taking control of what you can?" (impactprayer.com)

Letting go of the things we can't control can be one of the early steps toward trusting God to bring hope in the midst of our chaos. It is important to remember that just because we can't control what is going on, doesn't mean that it is out of His control. We need not worry about anything but instead we should pray for everything.

Further readings:

There are many devices in a man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand.
(Proverbs 19:21)

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
(1 Corinthians 10:13)

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
(Philippians 4:6-7)