As a marriage counselor, I know that the balance of power and control is an issue in every relationship. Typically partners experience ‘power struggles’ early in the marriage—one partner perceives the other has more power in making decisions. Underlying every power struggle is the fear of losing control. In a healthy relationship, loving trust and mutual submission replace fear.
Likewise, as God's children, we experience ‘power struggles’ with Him until we learn to be content with His leadership (Phil. 4:11; Heb. 5:8). Unfortunately, we are all too much like deprived two-year old's, characterized more by our tantrums and pouting than by quiet submission.
The prophet Isaiah describes Israel’s power struggle with God in these words: The Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says, Only in returning to me and waiting for me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength. But you would have none of it. You said, `No, we will get our help from Egypt. They will give us swift horses for riding into battle. (Is. 30:15-17).
Like a loving, patient parent who waits for the child’s tantrum to cease, so the LORD still waits for us to come to him so he can show us his love and compassion. For the LORD is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for him to help them (Is. 30:18). When will you stop trying to be in control? The power struggle exists only because you refuse to give up yours.
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