Somewhere between slavery and the Promised Land

I don't know about you but I like to be in control. I like to be able to navigate situations and determine my own course ultimately deciding the outcome. For me, control has been an idol. Strong word, I know. However, the Lord began dealing with me about this very thing idol nearly 18 months ago as I studied the book of Isaiah with BSF International.

The last few years have been quite a challenge for me as my family has faced numerous faith building circumstances. These have all been things that were beyond my control. Situations I'd have changed the outcome of had it been up to me. But the last six months have been the best of times and the worst of times.

Today I spent some time reading in the book of Exodus. The Israelites had been in circumstances not of their own choosing. And were finally experiencing freedom. However, the circumstances were uncertain. Here they were, numbers exceeding 600,000, in the wilderness with little food and little faith. Delivered from their oppression, they found themselves desiring to be back in the certainty of slavery because they knew the outcome and could even - to some degree - control their circumstances. The Israelites had relinquished control. They had relinquished their control of their own lives. They were obedient in their actions but not in their hearts. They grumbled and complained. Mad because they were in the wilderness; mad because they had little or nothing to eat. They were present but complaining. All the while,

And as Aaron spoke to the whole community of Israel, they looked out toward the wilderness. There they could see the awesome glory of the Lord in the cloud. (Exodus 16:10 NLT)

Reading this I saw myself. Stubborn, obstinate. Obedient in my actions but not always in my heart. I'm in a wilderness of sorts. Somewhere between slavery and the Promised Land. My eyes have seen the glory of the Lord in my circumstances and my heart has relinquished it's desire for idol of control. Wherever He leads I'll go. I'm beginning to experience the freedom of letting go and letting God!

What about you? What idols are keeping you from experiencing the fullness of God?