Most of us have heard it said “God is in Control.” Have you ever really thought about what it means? We usually think more deeply about it when we lose a loved one or a tragedy is in our midst. We wonder why if God is in control this could have happened.

It really comes down to God wants us to trust Him in all things. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding ” Proverbs 3:5

We may never know all the reasons for life’s problems until we meet Jesus face to face. He wants us to believe his promises and keep his words in our hearts in times of turmoil. “For my thoughts are not your thoughts neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.” Isaiah 55:8

As we enter into the Easter weekend we know that when Jesus went to the cross all looked very bleak. Many did not understand what was happening and the pain was very real. Even Jesus’s followers could not see past what they were experiencing at that moment. They did not remember the times Jesus performed miracles and told them he was leaving and preparing a place for them. “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” John 14:3

All they could focus on was that day. If only they knew that what looked so bad was going to turn into a glorious celebration! We do the same thing. We look at our current circumstances in troubled times and give in to despair. We need to remember our past blessings and how God has brought us though worse. “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8

We need to move our focus off the present and into the future where all is made right. God is in control. He has always been and will always be. We are his creation. Jesus gave his life because of his love for each of us. Thank him for this great sacrifice, accept it, follow him and trust him. Let us move our eyes from the crucifixion to the resurrection and rejoice.

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.” 1 John 3:16