One of the major causes of stress and worry in my life is trying to make things happen on my own schedule. If I think something is important, and I want it to happen, and I’m working hard to make it happen – then, it should happen. Preferably now, or at least very soon. The problem, of course, is that many things can’t be forced onto my schedule. So when I assume (or insist) that they should, the only things I achieve are more stress and less calm in my life.
The devotional book I’m reading, Jesus Calling by Sarah Young, reminded me this week to “stop trying to work things out before their times have come.” That idea really spoke to me; it made me realize that’s exactly what I’ve been trying to do. Even though I believe in God’s timing in my life, I haven’t been operating as if I believe in it at all. I’ve acted as if everything depends on me, as if I just need to keep charging ahead and things will fall into place exactly as I’ve planned. The only problem is, it’s not working.
This idea – that some things can’t be forced to happen on our schedule – applies to so many things. Changes we want to see in our marriages, decisions we want our children to make, the outcome of an illness, our hopes for a business or project – all of them include elements that can’t be forced to operate according to our timing. So while we work hard to make them happen, peace comes only when we allow them to happen in their own time.
You’ve probably noticed that “things tend to happen when they’re supposed to happen.” If you see that as God’s hand in things, then do what you need to do but focus on trusting Him for the timing. If you don’t see it that way, then do your part but don’t try to force the timing. More often than not, things will happen when the time is right, and you and I will have reduced stress and increased calm in our lives as part of the process.
Sharing with Motivation Monday, Empty Your Archive, Friday Pin Fest, Family Fun Friday, Messy Marriage and To Love, Honor and Vacuum.
themarriagebedcom says
Great post – thanks.
I find I can often make things happen “before their time” – but there is always a cost. A cost for me, and all to often for those around me.
Around here we say “No Ishmaels”
GC says
Hi Paul – Yes, that’s a good point. We can make things happen “before their time,” but it’s generally not a good idea!
Gaye
Beth says
I needed to read this, Gaye, because I’m struggling with the timing of something significant in my life as well. But the other day I watched a video of Andy Stanley preaching and he said something that I’ve partially recognized but not completely. He said, “We can’t thwart the hand of God.” This I know and fully think about often. But then Andy said, “We cannot force God’s hand either.” I’ve never quite thought it that way – “forcing God’s hand.” But that’s what I often try to do! I try to control or at least manipulate God into doing what I want, when I want it! You’d think as a counselor I’d know that you cannot change anyone else, least of all God! But then, I guess I don’t always practice what I preach! ha! This is a lesson God keeps teaching me and one day, Gaye, I will get it! Love ya!
GC says
“We cannot force God’s hand either” – I had not thought of it that way. That’s good to remember.
Thanks for your kind words, Beth. They really encourage me.
Gaye
Linda@Creekside says
I love all of Sarah Young’s devotional books … here and at the counseling office they are well-used! Thank yoiu for sharing this resource, my neighbor 2 doors down over at Beth’s!
;-}
Beth says
Two doors down! Wouldn’t that be sweet that we could really walk down the street to visit all our bloggy friends! Have a great day, neighbors and girlfriends! 🙂
GC says
It would be so much fun!
GC says
Thank you, neighbor!
Gaye
Carrie Groneman says
Excellent post and great tips and reminders too! Thank you for your insight. Carrie, A Mother’s Shadow
GC says
Thank you, my friend.
Gaye
Crystal From Tidbits of Experience says
This is such a great reminder. I personally have so many things that I want to get done, but life doesn’t seem to want to allow it to happen. My husband and kids take priority over my desires. So, my desires to write my eBook or the blog series on my mind seems to be taking a backseat.
GC says
Hi Crystal – It is really hard to find the time, isn’t it? And when your kids are young it seems almost impossible. I often have a hard time deciding – “is this the right time to push forward with this project, or should I wait?” It takes prayer, which I often seem to forget!
Gaye