Ezekiel 34:20-31

The Voice of the Lord

Why do so many of us feel the need to be in control?  I have observed men, women and even children with an intense desire for control over others. These are not generally happy, content people.

The anxiety that accompanies constant attempts to govern others seems to limit ones ability to develop close relationships. If we are truly Christ followers, and believe in the Word, we must also live a life that reflects our trust and dependence upon our God.

Having a supervisory role in the workplace is an opportunity to display God's will for us as sheep. We can be relational with other employees and manage them without being controlling. As the head of a household, we can be pleasing to the Lord as we model for and direct our family in the way of the Lord without controlling them. When we do so, there will be peace within us and around us.

"You my sheep, the sheep of my pasture, are people, and I am your God, declares the Sovereign Lord." Ezekiel 34:31

"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." John 10:11

We have been offered many gifts from God in this world. One of them is peace.

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid." John 14:27

We do not have to manage the world. Scripture tells us that the Lord is our master, He is in control.

Certainly we are to manage our own behaviors and keep a check on our attitudes, but the beauty that lingers within when we let go and let God, is a peace so many will never experience because of this longing for control.

Disagreement is inevitable, but conflict, fighting, and war result when we look to ourselves to be in charge rather than our Almighty and Sovereign Lord.

Dear God, we praise you and give you thanks for the many wonders you have blessed us with. For the goodness and grace you shower us with daily, and for the peace you have instilled in the hearts of many. Father, we pray for those who feel the need to be in control. Please open their eyes and soften their hearts to the example of Jesus and the life he lived here on earth. Help them to hear your voice, put their trust in you alone, and discover the strength and beauty of your peace. In the name of your precious son Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Please Read/Listen to Ezekiel 34:20-31