CHRIST DIARIES 004 : RELEASE CONTROL❤️

*This is a story from a trusted friend of mine*

In the word release there is ease. 

What is control ? 

In a biblical context, control can refer to the use of power, authority, or influence over oneself or others. The Bible teaches about self-control, which is the ability to rule one's actions, thoughts, and emotions in accordance with God's will. It also warns against seeking to control over others or ourselves  in a manipulative or oppressive manner, emphasizing the importance of humility, love, and respect in relationships. In the end, true control comes from surrendering to God's will and allowing His Spirit to guide and empower us to live according to His Word.

Message 

Release control. Surrender all that you are to God, withholding nothing. Your dreams and goals cannot be achieved without the presence and work of God Himself. I have many aspirations, but they remain mere dreams without surrendering control to the One above. You can pray and ponder all you want, but without a firm relationship with Christ and releasing control, there is no way these dreams can be accomplished. I have so much to live for, but without a relationship with Christ, there is nothing.

Often, I see how broken this world is and how much it needs a savior. The world is distorted and disrupted, and we turn to idols, politics, and materialism, blinding ourselves to the destructive nature around us. We prefer the comfort of the seen rather than facing the unseen and walking into the uncomfortable truth.

Recognizing this, I understand the importance of releasing control. By surrendering everything to God, I allow His divine plan to unfold in my life. My goals and dreams find true purpose and direction only when I let go and trust in Him completely. This surrender is not a sign of weakness, but a testament to my faith and trust in His wisdom and timing.

Living for Christ means stepping out of my comfort zone and facing the truth of His presence and power. It means embracing the uncomfortable truths and uncertainties, knowing that He is in control. This world may be broken, but through Christ, we can find hope and purpose. By releasing control and building a firm relationship with Him, we can navigate this distorted world with faith and resilience, trusting that He will guide us to accomplish our dreams and fulfill our purpose. 

I considered writing this entry of Christ Diaries on the topic of judgment and the harm in judging someone you don't know. While everyone is entitled to their own opinions, our judgments are not what people will be evaluated on come Judgment Day. So, why judge? This led me to realize that I haven't read enough of the Bible to thoroughly address this topic. Whether I'm right or wrong, I owe it to myself to commit fully to reading the Bible and seeking the truth.

Understanding the principles of judgment and how they align with God's teachings requires a deeper dive into Scripture. It's essential to base our reflections on a solid foundation of biblical knowledge. By committing to regular Bible study, I can gain a more accurate perspective on judgment and other critical issues. This commitment will not only enhance my understanding but also strengthen my relationship with God.

Writing about judgment without comprehensive knowledge could lead to misguided interpretations. Therefore, I am dedicated to immersing myself in the Word, allowing it to guide my thoughts and writings. Through this process, I aim to develop a more informed and compassionate viewpoint, rooted in the teachings of Christ. This journey of learning and reflection is vital for my spiritual growth and for sharing insights that are both meaningful and accurate.

I have held onto my dreams since December 31, 2023, and now I have released control, giving everything over to God. I know in my heart that building a foundational and loving relationship with Christ is more important than any dream I have.

Sometimes I cry because I dream so much of helping to save this world and pulling it back from the darkness that has gripped it so tightly. Yet, without a deep knowledge and understanding of God and the Bible, I won’t be able to do that.

This realization has been both humbling and enlightening. By surrendering my dreams to God, I am acknowledging that His plan is greater than my own. My desire to help the world stems from a place of deep compassion, but I recognize that I need God's wisdom and guidance to truly make a difference.

Building a relationship with Christ is the foundation upon which all my dreams can be realized. It's through this relationship that I gain the strength, wisdom, and courage to pursue my aspirations. My dreams are not just personal ambitions but a calling to bring light into the world. However, to fulfill this calling, I must be rooted in the teachings of Christ.

Each tear I shed is a testament to my commitment to this journey. I am dedicated to studying the Bible and deepening my faith, knowing that this is the path to achieving my dreams and making a meaningful impact. In releasing control, I am placing my trust in God's plan, confident that He will guide me to where I need to be.

By focusing on my relationship with Christ, I am laying the groundwork for a life of purpose and fulfillment. My dreams are in His hands now, and I trust that with His guidance, I can help bring about the change I so deeply desire. Respect and love can go a long way. 

Bible verses that talk about releasing control 

In Proverbs 3:5-6, it says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." This verse highlights the importance of releasing control and trusting in God's guidance and wisdom.

In Matthew 16:24-25, Jesus says, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." This passage emphasizes the need to surrender our desires and control to follow Christ wholeheartedly.

Releasing control to God involves acknowledging His sovereignty, submitting to His will, and trusting in His plans, even when they may not align with our own. It requires humility, faith, and a willingness to let go of our own desires and agendas in favor of God's perfect purpose for our lives.

In Matthew 16:24-25, Jesus is speaking to His disciples about the cost of following Him. He says, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it."

This passage emphasizes the radical commitment required to be a disciple of Jesus. It involves denying oneself, which means putting aside our own desires, ambitions, and selfishness to prioritize God's will and kingdom. Taking up the cross symbolizes embracing suffering, sacrifice, and even death for the sake of following Christ. Believing in Christ.

Jesus contrasts the temporary gains of worldly pursuits with the eternal rewards of surrendering to Him completely. For whosoever save his life shall lose it. He teaches that true life and fulfillment are found in losing our lives for His sake, surrendering control and trusting in His plan, even when it may involve challenges or hardships. Giving up on life and what it has to offer does not mean that you giving up on what God has to offer you. In the end we all come from and return to the same everlasting place. In the end this passage calls believers to wholeheartedly follow Jesus, even if it means letting go of control and embracing the path of self-denial and obedience to Him. Even though you are very passionate, what it is without the will of God ? Release control of that passion, and allow Christ to work wonders in your life. 

Jesus sets a high standard for discipleship by calling His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. By emphasizing the paradox that those who seek to save their lives will lose them, but those who lose their lives for His sake will find them, Jesus highlights the counterintuitive nature of the Kingdom of God. In whatever you do to try and get to the top of the food chain, just to be wealthy, you will lose your life and all your wealth will mean nothing once in your in the grave and your sprit is uneasy. True life and fulfillment are found in surrendering control, trusting in God's plan, and being willing to endure hardships for the sake of Christ.

This passage challenges believers to examine their priorities, values, and allegiances, and to be willing to relinquish control over their lives in order to fully submit to God's authority and purposes. It calls for a radical commitment to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, even when it means letting go of personal desires and comforts in order to embrace the path of self-denial and obedience to Him.

What is self-control? 

Self-control, also known as self-discipline or temperance, is a fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. 

22| But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, faith,

23| Meeknees, temperance: against there is no such law.

It is the ability to command one's actions, thoughts, and emotions in alignment with God's will and principles. Self-control involves resisting temptations, managing impulses, and exercising restraint in order to live a life that honors God.

In the Bible, self-control is emphasized as a virtue that leads to spiritual growth, maturity, and obedience to God's commands. It is essential for maintaining healthy relationships, making wise decisions, and living a life that reflects the character of Christ. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, believers can develop self-control and overcome sinful desires, allowing them to live in a way that pleases God.

Righteousness : living in accordance with to God. God’s standards and commands, being morally upright and seeking to what is right in God’s eyes. In the heart and outside serving your community, that aligns with God’s character and will. (Psalm 119:172, Proverbs 21:21, Romans 3:22)

Godliness : devotion to God. By a life that reflects his Holiness, love and obedience. Living a life pleasing to God. Seeking his honor and Him in all areas of life and grow in spiritual maturity through a close relationship with Him. ( 1 Timothy 4:7-8, 2 Peter 1:3-7)

Faith : Confident belief and trust in God. Trust in his promises and His word even when the circumstances seem uncertain and challenging. It’s the assured things of hope and the conviction of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1, Romans 10:17, Ephesian 2:8-9) 

Love : selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional. Love is the greatest commandment and the hallmark of the true follower of Christ. Love is shine in kindness, compassion, forgiveness and care towards others, reflecting the Love God has shown us through Jesus Christ. ( 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, John 13:34-35, 1 John 4:7-12)

Patience : endure trials, difficulties and delays. Delays with a calm and steadfast attitude, trusting in God’s timing and purpose. It involves preserving in faith, maintaining a spirit of humility and waiting in the Lord with hope and trust. (James 1:3-4, Romans 12:12, Galatians 6:9) 

Meekness : streets under control, humility. Meekness is gentleness and a willingness to submit to God’s will and guidance. A meek person is teachable, patient and willing to serve others a with a gentle and humble spirit. (Matthew 5:5, Colossians 3:12, James 3:13)

What’s the difference between self- control and Control ? 

Self-control, as mentioned in the Bible, refers to the ability to control one's own actions, thoughts, and emotions in alignment with God's will. It involves managing oneself in a way that honors God and leads to spiritual growth and maturity.

Control, on the other hand, can refer to the exercise of power, authority, or influence over oneself or others. While self-control focuses on personal discipline and obedience to God, control can sometimes involve manipulating or dominating others in a negative or oppressive manner.

In essence, self-control is about mastering oneself in accordance with God's principles, while control can have a broader connotation that includes exerting authority over external circumstances or individuals. The key distinction lies in the motivation and purpose behind the actions: self-control seeks to align with God's will, while control can sometimes be driven by selfish desires or the desire to dominate others.

Find out who you are as a Child of God first before anything else. It is never too late.