“Manipulate”

The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

Isaiah 58:11

 

Have you ever been a part of something, only to find out later the situation was manipulated for the outcome? Or maybe you are like me, and you were the one manipulating so the outcome ended in your favor.

I know how to sell an idea, go the extra mile, and even strategize for the outcome. Those skills are not bad, but what happens when we use those skills outside of God’s will? I believe God allows us to choose a direction, and He allows us to see that path through to the end. And the end is not always pretty.

Firsthand experience, pushing through “my” way, instead of allowing the plan to unfold at a natural pace has caused me great anxiety and stress. Learning to let go, and a watch God work even when I want to change the course of events eliminates chaos. It’s also much more entertaining to watch God work than to become stressed over my agenda.

Application

Next time reflect on a situation before you instantly begin to manipulate it.

Prayer

Father, help me embrace the fact that your plans are better than mine.