Everything Falls

This post is for every person out there who, like me, wants to control everything.  I think that's one reason that I became a teacher - I can be the little ruler of my kingdom in that classroom.  I like to have things in their place, I like to have order, I like to be in control of the things in my life. 

Lately, I have been really tested by things going on around me.  God keeps reminding me that I'm not the one in control.  As much as I want to be able to be in charge . . . God is the one who's ruling everything in this world.  Even silly things in my daily life that stress me out, He is in control of those, too. 

That realization gives me both relief . . . and terror.  On one hand, it is amazing to know that someone else is in charge.  Someone who knows all and sees all.  We are following such a steadfast Creator.  On the other hand, I wonder, "why do I even try to control the things in my life?  Do I worry and stress every day for nothing?"

John 16:31-33 (NIV)  "You believe at last!"  Jesus answered. "But a time is coming, and has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home.  You will leave me all alone.  Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.  I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But take heart!  I have overcome the world." 

The one thing that I am in control of is myself!  While I can't control the people and circumstances around me, I can control my own attitude and outlook.  I can focus my energy and strength on becoming closer to God - instead of becoming closer to success.  I can work on being patient - instead of worrying about deadlines or shortcomings.  No matter what craziness and chaos surrounds me, the one constant is the Creator of the universe who is by my side through it all. 

Everything Falls by Steve Fee  You said You'd never leave or forsake me.  You said this life is gonna shake me.  You said this world is gonna bring trouble on my soul.  This I know: when everything falls apart, Your arms hold me together.  When everything falls apart, You're the only hope for this heart.  When everything falls apart and my strength is gone, I find You mighty and strong.  You keep holding on.  When I see darkness all around me, when I see tragedy has found me, I still believe Your faithful arms will never let me go.  Sorrow will last for the night, but hope is rising with the sun, it's rising with the sun.  There will be storms in this life, but I know You have overcome, You have overcome. 

He is with you through it all. When everything falls apart around you, God is strong. You just need to remember to hold on to Him, to lean on Him, to hope in Him.