The life of every living thing is in his hand,
and the breath of every human being. Job 12:10
Heavenly Father, on this June Wednesday, we are deeply grateful for Job’s bold declaration. You, literally, “have a hand” in everything. This frees us to relax our sweaty grip on things we can’t control, and raise our hands to you in praise and surrender.
We don’t determine the number of days before you call us Home; but fill the ones you’ve marked for us with as much intimacy with you, and love for others, as possible. We can’t fix the trauma and triggers others carry in their hearts; but free us to stay present with kindness, understanding, and hope.
We can’t control what people think and say about us. But may what YOU think and say about us be our most defining and liberating reality. You call us your beloved, desired, delighted in daughters and sons. Forgive us for under-believing you, and over-believing what mere “earthlings” say.
We can’t manipulate the outcome of looming decisions—by us and those we love; but constantly remind us you’re the Author of our stories, not a passive garbage man, who has to clean up our messes. We don’t control the number of disappointments we’ll experience in life; but forgive us for thinking you don’t care, or will give us more heartache than grace.
Father, we don’t have control over people and circumstances that impact our jobs, finances, and future. But you do, and you don’t need us as your nagging reminders, or consulting partners.
Just give us laser sharp vision of Jesus’ empty tomb and resurrected beauty; your Fatherly-self—joyfully, sovereignly perched on heaven’s throne, and who we wondrously are in Christ. That’s all we need. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ glorious and grace-full name.