When prayer seems unanswered, we may wonder if God knows what is happening in our hurt or troubles. How do we know God is close to us through the desperate days? What does this Psalm assure for the child of God?
Just before Jesus ascended to heaven, He promised the disciples, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). He prefaced that declaration by saying, “All authority in heaven and earth has been given to Me” (Matthew 28:18).
With His nearness, we rest in His power and authority over everything we face, and in troubled times, His peace comes like a river that washes over us. The Secret Place of His Presence God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). We find God’s embrace through His presence. I can’t be in the bedroom when I’m in the kitchen, but this chapter reminds us that God is omnipresent, everywhere, present with His whole being, unlimited by time or space. Ever-present God is with us, always!
One of life’s greatest pleasures is recognizing His presence. As the words of this chorus say, “Shut in with God in the secret place, there in His presence beholding His face. Gaining new power to run in the race, I long to be shut in with God.” Whether through times of worship, reading His Word, hearing a sermon or testimony that moves us, or sitting at the piano praising the Lord, His presence ushers us to a “secret place” where He is near. Troubles begin to vanish in that secret place, and God looms larger and troubles smaller. A line from the song Sitting at the Feet of Jesus says, “Where can mortals be more blessed?” Indeed. The “ever-present” God is constantly and consistently with us. David experienced that truth. “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there” (Psalm 139:7-8).
Being in the storms of life — losing a loved one, going through a divorce, money worries, or fear over the world’s chaos — may seem insurmountable, like mountains crashing into the sea. But even in the worst days of life, God says, “Don’t be afraid; I am with you.”
Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging (Psalm 46:2-3). The secret place of God’s presence gives us the strength to face the day, accompanied by His unrivaled authority over every situation we face. The Secret Power of His Authority “All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me” (Matthew 28:18).
We come before you in humility and reverence, acknowledging that you are the Almighty, the Creator of the heavens and the earth. In times of uncertainty, when the storms of life rage around us, help us remember that you are in control.
We surrender our fears, worries, and doubts into your loving hands, knowing that your wisdom surpasses our understanding. You see the bigger picture, and nothing takes you by surprise. We find comfort in the knowledge that you are always with us, guiding our steps and working all things for our good.
Grant us the strength to trust in your divine plan, even when we cannot see the way forward. Help us embrace your sovereignty with unwavering faith, knowing that your love and grace are constant, regardless of the circumstances we face.
May this prayer serve as a reminder to all that no matter what challenges arise, you are in control. Your purposes will prevail, and your unfailing love will sustain us. In this trust, we find peace and hope.
We offer this prayer in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior.
Title: “Navigating the Storm: Understanding Control Freaks and Their Motivations”
Introduction:
In our lives, we all encounter individuals who seem to have an insatiable need for control. These individuals are the ones who want to dictate every aspect of our lives, consistently meddling in our affairs, yet remain impervious to feedback. It’s a draining experience, leaving us bewildered and often questioning their motives. Why do they act this way? What drives their compulsion to control everything around them, often at the expense of others? In this blog post, we will delve into the psychology behind control freaks, their behaviors, and explore strategies to navigate relationships with them.
The Desire for Control:
Control is a fundamental human desire. It stems from our need for security, predictability, and a sense of order in our lives. However, some individuals take this desire to an extreme, manifesting as control-freak behavior. Their need for control can stem from various underlying factors:
Anxiety and Fear: Control freaks often harbor deep-seated anxieties and fears about uncertainty or potential negative outcomes. They believe that by controlling everything, they can avoid undesirable situations.
Perfectionism: Many control freaks are perfectionists who set impossibly high standards for themselves and others. They believe that only they can ensure things are done “right.”
Low Self-Esteem: Paradoxically, some control freaks have low self-esteem. They seek to control others and situations to compensate for their own perceived inadequacies.
Past Trauma: Previous traumatic experiences can lead to a desire for control as a means of protection against further harm. This can make it difficult for them to trust others.
The Changing Plans:
Control freaks’ tendencies to change plans frequently can be attributed to their need for perfection and fear of unforeseen problems. They believe that their way is the best way, and they constantly tweak plans to align with their vision, often without considering the inconvenience it causes others.
The Perception of Superiority:
Control freaks often act as if they are the smartest or most capable individuals in the room. This superiority complex can stem from a belief that they alone can make the right decisions. It’s essential to understand that this attitude is often a defense mechanism to mask their own insecurities.
The Craving for Space:
Interestingly, control freaks may be filling a void within themselves. Their desire to control everything may be an attempt to gain a sense of purpose or identity. By micromanaging every detail, they feel needed and in control of their own lives.
Dealing with Control Freaks:
Empathy: Try to understand the underlying fears and insecurities that drive their need for control. Empathy can pave the way for more open communication.
Set Boundaries: Make it clear when their actions become intrusive or overbearing. Boundaries help establish a balance between their need for control and your need for autonomy.
Communication: Encourage open, honest, and non-confrontational communication. Explain how their behavior affects you and propose compromises where possible.
Seek Professional Help: If their controlling behavior is causing significant distress in your life or theirs, suggest seeking professional guidance, such as therapy or counseling.
Dealing with control freaks can be challenging, but understanding their motivations is a step toward building healthier relationships. Remember that their compulsion for control often stems from their own fears and insecurities. By approaching them with empathy and clear communication, you can work towards finding common ground and achieving a more balanced and harmonious relationship. Ultimately, empathy and patience can be powerful tools in helping control freaks find their own path to personal growth and healing.
Individuals who have a strong need for control often don’t fully realize the extent of their behavior or how challenging it can be for others to deal with them. They may perceive their actions as well-intentioned or necessary, even when others feel stifled or treated as though they lack autonomy.
It’s important to remember that their behavior is often rooted in their own fears, anxieties, or insecurities, rather than a deliberate attempt to belittle or treat others as children. In their minds, they may genuinely believe that they are helping or guiding.
Open and honest communication can be key in such situations. Expressing how their behavior makes you feel and discussing the impact it has on your life can help them gain insight into the challenges you face. It may also be an opportunity for them to reflect on their actions and consider making adjustments to improve the dynamics of the relationship.
Lord,
We come before you with hearts full of compassion, seeking your guidance and grace for those who struggle with the need to feel superior and control others. We understand that their actions often stem from their own inner turmoil and insecurities.
We pray that they may find peace within themselves, that they may learn to let go of the need for control and superiority. May they discover the joy and strength that comes from embracing humility and empathy.
We also pray for the relationships they hold dear. May their loved ones find the patience and understanding to support them through their journey of growth. May these connections be strengthened rather than lost.
In your wisdom, guide us all towards greater understanding, compassion, and love. Amen.”
Prayers can be a source of comfort and hope, both for those in need of change and for those who care about them.
Joyful-Echoes 