When We Can’t Control What We Can’t Control.

Philippians 4:4-7
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. 5 Let your reasonableness[d] be
known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; 6 do not be anxious about anything, but in
everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made
known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard
your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

When we can’t control what we can’t control

Sometimes things are just out of our control. This is a reality that for some is difficult to
bear. We want to be able to hold on to everything and move in whatever direction we
feel is best. The challenge is that there are times when some things are just beyond our
control. We are left with the question of what to do when we can’t control what we
can’t control.
Paul was a man who went from controlling everything as a religious leader to living a life
that was uncontrollable. Everything he had studied was upended and everything he
thought he knew was challenged on the road to Damascus. He was blinded until the
Lord restored his sight and even then everything changed. I’m sure he had it all planned
out until he didn’t. From that moment on he went where the Lord led him and did as he
was commanded. He let go and trusted God.
Writing to the church in Philippi he reminds them of what to do when things get out of
control or seem impossible. The principles of rejoicing, praying, giving thanks, and living
in peace will safeguard who we are in Jesus when it seems everything is spinning out of
control. This is important for the life of a believer. When the whole of the world seems
out of order we need to be the solid place for them to stand. We are the example, light
of the world, salt of the earth, and hope to the helpless. We are servants of the most
high God and should behave as such in our times of need.
Paul knew something we often lose sight of in conflict. When all is out of control, God
has a firm grip. He shares these principles not to make light of life but because he
knows in who we place our hope in those moments. He knows the heart of the Father. He
knows the strength of the Lord and has seen his glory in his own life. He has learned
that there is an even greater joy on the other side when we experience God’s grace in
our lives and hope in His redemption. He knows God is in control even when we can’t control
what we can’t control.
Keep The Faith,
Pastor Tommy