Peace in Situations You Can’t Control

“Be still, and know that I am God.” -Psalm 46:10a

I guess you can say I’m somewhat of a control freak. Something about knowing every detail of my life brings me a sense of comfort and control. Maybe it’s the idea that I could avoid trials and heartache by doing something. Surely, I will encounter hardship if I just be still and do nothing, however, the very opposite is true.

Each of us will find ourselves in times or seasons with circumstances we have no control over, whether you’ve lost your job and you don’t know how you’re going to make ends meet or you’ve suffered loss of a loved one or maybe your life just isn’t where you thought it would be. Whatever the circumstances may be that cause you to feel like you just can’t get a grip on things and the very thing(s) that once brought you comfort are slipping away, take heart my friend! It’s in those moments that our Heavenly Father calls us to “Be still, and know that I am God.” We have a good good Father and He is always working things out for our good and His glory (Romans 8:28, Ephesians 2:10). 

Be still and open your heart to receive our Fathers peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:6-7). God calls us to not lean on our own understanding but to trust Him in all things and He promises to direct our path (Proverbs 3:5-6). He won’t leave us wandering, instead He will lead us on a path that is sure and filled with abundant joy. God has you; He cares for you more than you know and nothing is too great for Him! Nothing can separate you from the love of God (Romans 8:38-39)!

Control is an illusion that says we are the author of our lives, but the reality is that God alone is the one who establishes our steps (Proverbs 16:9). So lets be still and listen for Gods voice. It’s His voice that will lead us to take the next step in His perfect timing and plan for us. I’d like to end with some wise words from author Priscilla Shirer in her bible study, Discerning the Voice of God, when she says, “Listen, He is the prize. Not His direction, guidance, and clarity, not even His comfort, relief, and encouragement. Just Him. He is the One who encompasses all you are searching for.” Jesus himself is our peace. He is all we need in times of uncertainty and He is more than enough to sustain us.