I think I’m in control. You probably think you are too. Some signs? You may feel anxious, or angry. Maybe like me, you feel both, topped with strife. You know what we don’t feel: joy.

Anxiousness, anger, striving. You and I can expect them when we stand at the precipice of a situation we think we need to conquer, our backs to all of the other obstacles we’ve already controlled our way through. We know we need to bring our A game to this one too, or all will crumble.

Joy only overflows when we realize the sovereign, good God, has this current obstacle covered too, and in fact was graciously guiding us through all the others. Chances are, we didn’t sense the joy then, like we won’t sense it now, because we are living in the façade of our own kingdom. A kingdom where we make things happen, climb every hill, rule the world. The façade of our control is fertile ground for anxiousness, anger, strife. We palatably call it stress, rather than accept that we are deeply sinful, thinking ourselves king of our own worlds.

There is one King. “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together” (Col1.15-17).

Courtney and I are staring into the face of some important decisions. We now have a place to live and sign the lease tomorrow! We have people that are interested in gathering! Financial support is continuing to increase! We have partnerships with great networks and local churches (possibly one more)! Yet I find myself often snapping at my kids, being short with my wife, sending late night emails, sometimes even moping around. I think I’m in control and have to get us over this next hurdle. I have to start things perfectly, earn our next victory, plant this church.

A friend reminded me yesterday, as he sits on a similar precipice: “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all will be added to you.” It’s not that I have to work my way to things that fit into a “his kingdom” category, like this church plant. Rather, “seeking first His kingdom” is walking towards Him while realizing He in fact is King, knowing what He will do, doing what He desires, and providing for me along the way. It’s not about me doing the right kind of thing for Him, but Him doing what He desires. He knows what I need, and He knows what He wants. I get to enjoy the ride. He is both a sovereign and good King.

Release control with me, and let’s experience foretastes of it now. Call your sin, “sin” before a Holy God. Be refreshed by His total forgiveness through the death of Christ, and rejoice in your total righteousness gifted to you by Jesus. He rules. Let’s joyfully charge the hill together, it’s His hill in His kingdom, and He will work all things for His glory.

Please Pray: 1.Wisdom to seek God on who/what/when/how to begin gathering in our basement. We have plans and ideas, but need His direction. 2.For the move into our new place, Sept 4th, and great relationships with Silver Springers who don’t know Jesus! 3.Courtney said it best yesterday, pray for Him to build His house, that we would not labor in vain.