Main Character Moment - Week Seven

We all desire control. In Genesis 1:26 we read that the Lord has given us “dominion” over almost everything. The key, however, is that we are to be in communion with Him; our work a collaborative responsibility. It is when we stop sharing responsibility that things go south. We desire to control people, our resources, and especially our future. When we start to take control from God, our lives become fearful, weak, and isolated.

The Bible talks about a king named Asa. He came from a long line of evil kings in Judah. In 2 Chronicles 14: 11-12, Asa went to the Lord for help because Judah was at war with the Ethiopians. After the war, Azariah comes to Asa and reminds him and the whole city to keep pursuing God. Later, Asa desired control again and disobeyed the Lord. Asa is a prime example of what happens when we decide we want all the control.

Discussion Questions

Matthew 26:39 “And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.”

Jesus is the best example we have of taking responsibility and surrendering control in the hardest parts of our life. He knew what his Father had called him to do. Jesus’ posture of, “not as I will, but as you will.” is the posture we all must take when we surrender control to the Lord. It is because of Jesus being obedient that we also get to partake in his strength to surrender our idol of control.

What do you need to take responsibility for? Is it your marriage? Your job? Kids? Is it the way you treat others? Are there people you need to ask forgiveness from? Jonathan Pokluda said, “forgiveness is forfeiting (or surrendering) the right to seek revenge.” When we are obsessed with control, it hurts the people around us. Pray right now for the Lord to reveal where we need to surrender control. Is it your image? Your life in general? In prayer, ask the Lord very specific questions of where you are taking control.

Once you have finished praying, ask what the Lord has revealed to the group. Before departing, pray a final prayer of strength to let go of control.