Most things in my life are out of my control. Often, I have the illusion of control, but ultimately, every outcome depends on God.

Take gardening, for example. I can attempt to exert control over the success of my garden by purchasing high quality seeds, infusing my soil with rich nutrients, watering thoroughly and consistently, and ensuring a location with adequate sunlight at the right time of year. Then it’s out of my hands. In the end, unless a little bit of germination magic happens inside that little seed, my efforts will have been wasted.

“So, then, neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.” (1 Corinthians‬ ‭3‬:‭7,‬ ‭CSB‬‬)

This lack of control could feel very unsettling. It could even make life seem futile. And it would be if the one in control were malicious, stupid, apathetic, or selfish.

Fortunately, Almighty God is loving, generous, and good. He has the last word on everything that happens because He is more wise than any other being. He sees everything — past, present, and future — and sees how every little event affects every other little event.

In this case, my lack of control feels like a relief. A burden lifted. I don’t have to worry about the final results. If I diligently obey everything God gives me to do (like the gardener sowing, fertilizing, and watering), I can rest in confidence that whatever comes next will be His good and perfect will. Even if it doesn’t look like it from my perspective.

Dear God, thank you so much for taking the burden of success from my shoulders. Give me the strength and energy to do the work you have given me, but then remind me to trust you with the outcome of my labors. Teach me to stop worrying and lean on your wisdom and generous love.