But a fast from comparison and a feast on biblical identity could move your life into a place of freedom and delight. You would be more present to those you love and begin to notice things happening around you.

The greatness of a man’s power is the measure of his surrender. William Booth

But when we become obsessed with managing our existence to the point that we stop trusting God or depending on him, we enter the dangerous territory of seeking to become God ourselves.

Obedience is about trust, and when we try to accomplish God’s will in our way, we practice a thinly veiled form of rebellion.

You don’t have to compete with others for what is already yours. There is a seat at the table with your name on it. Now use your privilege and position to welcome others in.

As Nouwen was hanging in the air, dependent on another, his faith was nourished through the tangible release of control.

For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance like the evil of idolatry.

Control is an illusion. The more we seek to mitigate risk by seizing power, the more we drive people away and distance ourselves from God. Rather than securing our future, we jeopardize it.

He loves us and is committed to our flourishing and joy. Only when we truly believe that we are in the middle of his plan can we stop manipulating other people in an attempt to fulfill ours.