Let Go of the Reins

My post“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”

– Proverbs 3:5–6 content

DEVO

Control is one of the hardest things to release—especially when your past has been full of chaos, betrayal, pain, or addiction. When life felt out of control, grabbing the reins seemed like the only way to survive. Now, in recovery, you may find yourself trying to control everything: your healing, other people, the future, your emotions, and even God’s timing.

But let’s be honest: control is a counterfeit comfort. It’s a false security that leads to stress, frustration, and burnout. No matter how hard you try, or how smart you are, you were never meant to be in control—God always was.

At the root of control issues is a trust issue with the Lord. We want guarantees. We want to avoid pain. We want to feel safe. And, we want it right now! But true safety doesn’t come from having all the answers—it comes from knowing the One who does.

Letting go isn’t weakness; it’s worship. It’s saying, “God, I trust You more than I trust myself. I believe You are good, even when life isn’t easy. I choose surrender over striving.”

Jesus never told you to carry the weight of the world. He said, “Come to Me… and I will give you rest.” Rest doesn’t come through control—it comes through trust and faith. So loosen your grip. Breathe. Step aside. Let God be God.

JOURNALING & INTROSPECTION

1. What situations or people am I currently trying to control?

2. What fear is hiding underneath my need to stay in control?

3. How has control affected my peace, my relationships, or my recovery?

4. What does biblical surrender look like in this area of my life?

5. Can I recall a time when letting go led to God’s best in my life?

SCRIPTURES FOR MEDITATION:

• Proverbs 3:5–6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…”

• Matthew 6:27 – “Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?”

• Isaiah 26:3 – “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You…”

• Psalm 46:10 – “Be still, and know that I am God…”

• 1 Peter 5:6–7 – “Humble yourselves… casting all your care upon Him…”

• Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you… to give you a future and a hope.”

Goal for Today:

Release what you’ve been gripping. Choose one specific thing—whether it’s a person, a fear, a decision, or a situation—and give it to God. Literally say, “Lord, I give this to You.” Write it down. Lay it at His feet in prayer. Whenever you’re tempted to take it back, remind yourself: “I trust You, God. You are in control. I am not.”

Prayer:

Father, I confess that I’ve been trying to control things You never asked me to carry. I’ve trusted my fear more than Your faithfulness. Today, I lay down my need to manage, fix, or predict everything. I surrender my plans, my people, my problems—everything—to You. Teach me how to trust again. Fill my heart with peace as I let go and let You lead. I believe Your way is better. Help me walk in freedom, not fear. In Jesus’ name, amen.