Let. It. Go., by Karen Ehman, has officially Now. Been. Read. And, in case you missed it, I’ve kind of talked it up a storm. Because, y’all! I have some serious control issues. Can I get an Amen? (Not needed from The Nana, thank-you-very-much. Not that I’m trying to control what you’re saying or not saying. Just saying…)
As part of the final Blog Hop over at Melissa Taylor’s Online Bible Study page, I’m coming to you live, from my couch, to tell you one surprising thing that I am taking away from this study. And it was a doozy of a lesson, if ever there was one. You see, I’ve been all about being controlling as a wife, as a mama, as a reformed Plotter & Planner. But, I knew that. That was not up for debate.
What was?
Trust.
Well, that was unexpected.
Karen Ehman makes a point at the end of the 3rd chapter that rocked my socks!
“We begin taking our cues from him (God) rather than listening to deceit and becoming convinced that we know better… Then we, for the first time perhaps, walk by faith, not by sight. Nor by strategy. Nor by plotting and positioning.”
Oh. My. Stars.
And later, in chapter 8, she writes,
“I responded by doing what I could… and trusting God with the outcome.“
This is hard for me. Sometimes, I’ve learned, I take control because I’m scared. I’m scared that the outcome won’t be a desired one. Or, that if I don’t dictate circumstances now, then the outcome I do desire won’t ever come to pass. And that is okay!
And that’s what I’m slowly coming to learn. I’m coming to see why this verse spoke so powerfully right into my soul:
“But I trust in you, Lord;
I say, “You are my God.”
My times are in your hands.”
Psalm 31:14-15
I am learning to trust God for The Outcome. I’m learning to do what I can, and that involves some planning, yes. But, it also means that after I’ve done some planning, it’s time to Let. It. Go. How many times have I told some of you, right here, that God’s got this? He’s got you?
He is a patient God. For He bears my turtle-like crawl toward realization. He is a loving God. For He patiently waits as I begin to put my hope in Him and not in my own plans.
I’ve certainly been held close to The Refiner’s fire during this study. No one likes discipline at the time, and I am no exception. But, I am thankful. Yes, indeedy. And I know there is much practicing that needs to be done. I’m ready to Let. It. Go.
Anyone want to pray for me?
If you have a few minutes and would like to read what some of the other women who’ve participated in this study had to say about it, click here. There are plenty of other fantastic insights to read on this blog hop page.
Trust is hard, isn’t it!? I struggle with it, too. And yes, it’s usually the outcome I’m afraid of. But He’s always been so good to me. It’s strange to even doubt…even if it’s subconscious. Thanks for this, Missy!
This was perfect timing as “Trust” is my 2013 Word so thanks for giving me another “trust” verse and for sharing your thoughts/journey…So encouraging…Thankful for you 🙂
Dolly, I’m equally thankful for you! Trust is a beautiful and powerful word. I may have to consider that one for next year.
Missy, I wish I could laugh over a cup of coffee with you. I love your perspective and I enjoy reading your blog!
Why, yes please! And, thank you so much – that brought a huge smile to my face!
Now I need to add this to my “must read” list. That list is getting longer and longer. I want to pray for you!
Please do. Imma gonna need it.
Missy I think we all felt the burn – for me – I thought I was not a controller – on the test I rated low, but found in some ways I am and I also found that in every chapter I learned something to make me a better person. Enjoyed your blog this evening. Debbie W. (OBS Leader)
Thank you Debbie. Feeling the burn of the refining fire, it’s something I hope never to get used to.
I love your beautiful thoughts on this book. They are so compelling, humble and so very graceful. I will continue to pray for you… and your whole incredible gang! You are an amazing writer Missy… and you are a blessing to me… love you girl!
My sister-friend, thank you. You bless me with your words and your encouragement and your love.
Missy, I couldn’t wait to read your take on the ending of Let.It.Go. I have to admit, I’ve felt quite a bit of burn, too, these last few weeks, too. Praying for all of us as we continue to apply what we’ve learned.
Well, Pat, at least we’re burning together, right? Thank you for praying. I’m definitely needing it over here.
(Sigh.) So, I guess I’m going to have to read this now. Gee, thanks. 😉
Yuppers. Here to help. 😉
I just started this book!! So far I love it !!
Ooh, let me know as you go along, k?
Oh my stars!
this was like a slap in the face on both cheeks then a slap to be forehead *V8 style*
It’s like something you’ve known but when you hear it from someone else, that makes it so much more real.
Thank you for this.
You really do make my life better!
EVery time you sit down to write on this here blog:)
Girl – I heart you so. LOLing about the V8 style slap. Yup – been doing that a BOATLOAD while reading this book.
Loved this recap of the book! I never thought I had trust issues, either… but =)
Thank you for sharing!!!
Right?!? It’s jarring. But hopeful.