"May I Run Your Life, Please?"

I have never seen a person whose life is so "together" that they are capable of running another person's life. But many people try, even without knowing it. Books have been written on the subject. We all have experienced those people who are quick to tell us what we need to do. Some people will even provide a step-by-step, day-by-day commentary making it clear what you should do next. Such a life is plagued with irritation and frustration.

Some of these "controllers" are simply straightforward in their "guidance," often coming across harsh, overpowering and demanding. Others are subtle, making "suggestions" and giving hints that are so well-stated that they manipulate by the guilt and shame. They are skilled and crafty as they inflict their poisonous control.

Those who want to control you will often preface their demands with, "If you would just do what I say, everything will be just fine," or "This is what you need to do." They say or imply things like, "I know what's best for you." They want to run "your show" with rules, demands and expectations, often tapping into your emotions for that extra twist. A little word to "persuade" you to do what they want, providing a dose of guilt if you don't, is a major weapon in their arsenal. They may even blame your lack of response for making them "feel bad" in some way. You suddenly become responsible for their "happiness and contentment" if you don't perform as expected. The Pharisees of Jesus' day were good at it. In the name of religion they controlled and manipulated people with laws, rules and expectations never intended by God. The people were burdened because of the harassment of those who "knew what was best for them." Do you do that with anyone?

The Bible teaches us that no one has the right to your life but you and God: you, because God has given it to you, and God, because Jesus has paid the price for your ransom. The result of keeping your life to yourself is devastating. Your sin actually puts Satan in control, who then can claim your life for eternity. But to give your life to Jesus brings abundant life. He will safely deliver you to the Father and a home in His kingdom forever.

"When [Jesus] saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." (Mt. 9:36, NIV)

Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." (Mt. 11:28, NIV)

By giving our lives to God and living for Him, we can leave the lives of others to them. And, who knows? As we find rest, others may follow our example.

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Grace Enough

There have been times in my life when I felt I was at the end... not the end of life but the end of life as I knew it. There seemed to be no hope. As far back as I can remember I've wanted to let God handle things, but there were times when He didn't even seem to be there. Then He would remind me to "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." (Proverbs 3:5) Whenever I listened and obeyed (as hard as that is sometimes), God always came through. He has grace enough to see us through.

The power of grace is enough to forgive us of all sins. It leads us through storms created by our own sins, but also sin in general. But we must be willing to come before Him with humble hearts to receive such grace. Proverbs 3:34 says, "He mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble." The grace of God is available to all who will come to Him and freely receive it.

What we can expect when we experience the grace of God is beyond measure. Words like freedom, relief, refreshment, laughter, joy, and more come to mind. We no longer have to be negative and judgmental, we become more tolerant toward others. Guilt no longer is used to control others or to be controlled by others. In fact, all of the "tough" things the Bible encourages us to do in relationship with others, and with God, becomes possible. We become free of to love, forgive and experience forgiveness. God's grace is enough.