Letting Go

Have you ever heard that catchy Christian phrase "Let go and let God!"?? It is one that I usually say sarcastically. . . mostly because I have a general distaste for catch phrases like that one, which have the potential to create a completely wrong view of Christianity and God.

But you know what? The lessons I have been learning lately are making me rethink my sarcastic use of that phrase. I think I might actually have to take it seriously and allow it to challenge me and convict me.

You see, there are things in life right now that have me worried. I worry about our future, about our ministry, and about my kids. I don't know what is in store, and the more I worry the more I worry (I know that sentence doesn't make sense, but that's how it works). So what do I tend to do when things seem a little confusing and worry consumes me?

I hold on a little tighter, I try a little harder, and I exhaust myself in the process.

I wrap my little fingers around my dreams until the blood drains out. I consume myself with making sure the dreams come true and my plans succeed - which is an interesting pursuit when I remember that ultimately I have no control over what happens in the bigger picture of my life.

So what do we learn from "Let go and let God"? We learn to loosen our grip. Instead of holding on to our desires with every last ounce of our strength, we surrender them to God. I like to think of it as holding them on open palms laid before our Savior. Letting go doesn't mean that the dreams don't come true. . . it only means that we have finally decided it will be ok either way.

I'm learning to let go and let God. Every day is an opportunity to choose to trust Him and not the plans that I want to make. It helps to remember how desperately and deeply He loves me. It is good to meditate on the truth of His word and the promises He has made. Sometimes it makes me laugh to think how hard I try to hold on to my own dreams and plans. . .

Let go. Let God. His plans are better than ours anyway.

If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! Matthew 7:11