“Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’”
James 4:13-15 (NIV)
In the pursuit of our goals and dreams, it’s natural to want to plan every detail and control every outcome. We tell ourselves that with enough effort and determination, we can shape our future exactly as we envision it. However, James 4:13-15 offers a profound reminder: our lives are not as predictable as we might think, and trying to control everything can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety.
Why Our Plans Might Be Causing Us Stress
When we rely solely on our own plans and timelines, we set ourselves up for frustration. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns that we cannot foresee, and when our plans don’t go as expected, it can leave us feeling defeated, anxious, or overwhelmed. This relentless pursuit of control often stems from a deep-seated fear of the unknown, leading us to believe that if we can just manage every detail, we’ll avoid pain or failure.
But in reality, this mindset can be emotionally and mentally exhausting. Constantly trying to force outcomes drains our energy, leaving us stressed and anxious. When things don’t go as planned, it can trigger feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, feeding into a cycle of anxiety and disappointment.
The Peace of Aligning with God’s Will
The scripture in James encourages us to shift our perspective. Instead of insisting on our own way, we’re invited to trust in God’s will and timing. This doesn’t mean we abandon our goals or stop making plans—it means we hold them loosely, with an open heart, willing to follow where God leads.
Aligning our will with God’s brings a profound sense of peace. It frees us from the burden of trying to control every outcome and allows us to rest in the assurance that God’s plans for us are good, even when they differ from our own. When we surrender control, we find relief from the constant pressure to make everything happen on our own.
The Mental and Emotional Benefits of Trusting in God’s Will:
1. Less Stress: By letting go of the need to control every aspect of our lives, we reduce the stress and anxiety that come from unmet expectations.
2. Greater Peace: Trusting in God’s plan brings a sense of peace, knowing that we don’t have to navigate life’s uncertainties alone.
3. Emotional Resilience: Accepting that life doesn’t always go according to our plans helps us build emotional resilience, allowing us to face challenges with grace.
4. Stronger Faith: As we experience the peace that comes from surrendering to God’s will, our faith grows stronger, reinforcing our trust in His guidance.
Take the First Step Toward Peace
If you find yourself overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or the pressure to make things happen on your own, it’s time to take a step back and realign with God’s will. At Be Made Whole Counseling Services, LLC, we are here to support you on this spiritual journey. Our faith-based counseling services are designed to help you find peace, purpose, and mental well-being by trusting in God’s plan for your life.
Contact Us Today:
Don’t wait until the stress becomes too much to bear. Reach out for a free consultation and start your journey towards peace and mental clarity.
Be Made Whole Counseling Services, LLC
Website: bemadewholecounseling.org
Phone: 302-480-0573
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Remember, peace begins when we surrender control and trust in God’s perfect will. Let us help you find that peace today. Wilt thou be made whole?
Dr. Waneko Bivens-Saxton
Founder & Marriage and Family Therapist
Be Made Whole Counseling Services, LLC
