Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. Ps. 20:7
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Prov. 3:5-6
The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him. Nahum 1:7
Dear heavenly Father, though it’s not a fun thing, it’s an essential thing. Actually, it’s a freeing thing to realize how little control we have over people, places and things.
For only by acknowledging the limits of our humanity will we rest in the beauty of your sovereignty; only by giving up trying to control our difficult circumstances will we come to rejoice in your well-ordered providences; only by accepting messes as a part of life will we turn to your mercies in the midst of our strife; only by crying “Uncle!” will we learn to cry “Abba!”
Father, as this day begins, (and continues), settle our restless hearts, and relax our white-knuckled grip on stories, hearts and situations we’d love to fix. We turn from trusting in our version of “horses and chariots,” and acknowledge that our trust is in you.
By the truth of the gospel, the pledge of your faithfulness, and the power of your Spirit, we trust you with people, for whom we have great concerns—even fear and anger. May “faith expressing itself in love” (Gal. 5:6) trump our penchant for “worry expressing itself through meddling”.
We trust you with our unresolved conflicts. You’ve commissioned us to be ambassadors of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:20). Grant us grace, wisdom, and courage.
Lastly, Father, we trust you with our health (it often feels so fragile); our wealth (because it’s so fleeting and deceptive), our plans (for you alone know the future); and our hearts (which are still prone to wander). So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ merciful and mighty name.
