Control

One of the things that seems to come to my attention again and again is the control we allow things to have in our lives to have over us. 1 Thessalonians 5:6 says, "So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled." As I seek to grow and be more like Christ I must ask what is controlling me? Am I controlled by selfish desire or the Spirit of God. Does some substance control me? Is there something in my life I feel I must have? How about you? Is your life controlled by alcohol or nicotine? How about caffeine? Does your day depend on that cup of coffee first thing in the morning? How about other people? Is your self worth dependent on how others view you?

These are some tough questions. Over the past few months God has been dealing with me about issues that are controlling my life. The first one I had to deal with was caffeine. I found myself at a place where I would have a headache until I had some caffeine. It was shock to realize I was being controlled in such a simple way. Yet, it was much the same influence that drugs had over me years ago. Sure I could function without but the day seemed better with my fix. Now the great thing is that through the power of the Holy Spirit I am now caffeine free for about 4 months.

Now God has shown me the control that I have given food in my life. So I am determined with God's help to take back control of the things I eat.

1 Corinthians 6:12 says, "Everything is permissible for me"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me"—but I will not be mastered by anything." What must we surrender to the cross today?