Releasing the Reins

Some trust in chariots and some in horses,

But we will remember and trust in the name of the Lord our God.

Psalm 20:7

It sure is easy to fall into trusting in ourselves and our resources instead of trusting God.  I don’t know why, after so MANY lessons God has taught me, that I fall into doing things in my own strength.  Ugh!  And every time, I could slap myself for doing so!   Don’t I know better?!

I’m amazed that God doesn’t give up on me.  Failures and mistakes - one after another - but He keeps bringing me back home to His heart.  Though I waywardly stray from His will, He brings me back to the center of it.  He’s such a good Father!  He has such an endless supply of love and mercy.

When we follow Him, we find rest from the worry that comes from trusting in ourselves and planning our own futures.  Because never in our own planning and striving do we find true rest or peace.  We are always working to get ahead of the potential obstacles and shortcomings.  Always needing a Plan B.  Always wondering what’s coming up around the bend.  When our horse might veer off the path or come to a screeching halt without warning.

I think it’s in connecting to the Vine that we find the peace we long for.  When we connect heart-to-heart with Him, we experience His goodness, His kindness, His faithfulness.  We realize that He has our best in mind.  He has good things for us.  We can trust Him - with ourselves and our children.  When we stay connected to His heart, we discern His voice and glimpse His plans.  We hear His encouraging words that say, “Keep going, baby girl.  We are together in this.  I won’t let you down.”

It’s in those moments of sweet intimacy with Him that we find the rest we need and become centered once again on Him.  We let go of our tight grip on the reins and relax into Him.  We allow Him to take the lead and carry us onward.  His eyes don’t fail in the darkness.  Darkness is light to Him.  He knows what’s coming up ahead and is prepared for it.  His legs don’t falter against the terrain.  He is steady.  He is calm.  He is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control - all rolled into One.  There is no fear of being thrown, because His strength is surefooted and controlled.  

Yes, He is the One to trust in.  He is our Faithful and True.  He is the One Who will deliver us safely to our destination.  He will be the One that loves us unconditionally the whole way there.  It is He.  Our Lord and our God.  Praise and honor and glory belong to Him!  

Thank you, God, for being so trustworthy.  Help us to remember and put our trust in You alone.  Keep us centered and continually speak to our hearts.  Give us courage to let go of the reins and just let You have your way.  Your strength carries us further than we could ever hope to carry ourselves. And Your goodness brings us peace.