I trust God with what I cannot control
One of the biggest misconceptions people have is that once you answer God’s call, earn a degree, build a ministry, or grow spiritually, life somehow becomes easy.
It doesn’t.
This year, I have the incredible blessing of completing my Doctorate of Divinity. I am deeply grateful for this accomplishment. But if I’m being transparent, my life isn’t perfect.
I have grown children and teenagers whom I love with all my heart. Like many families, we’ve experienced hurt, misunderstandings, past trauma, and seasons of division. One of the deepest pains I carry is that I have not been able to see my granddaughter at all. That is a heartbreak no degree, title, or accomplishment can erase.
One lesson God continues to teach me is that boundaries are not rejection. Sometimes the most loving thing we can do is protect our peace while praying for restoration.
When you choose healing instead of chaos, peace instead of constant conflict, and faith instead of fear, not everyone will understand your journey. Sometimes the greatest attacks don’t come from strangers—they come through the relationships closest to us. People often respond from their own pain before they respond from healing.
I’ve learned that I cannot control other people’s choices. I cannot force reconciliation. I cannot carry burdens that belong to someone else.
What I can do is trust God.
I can continue to love, even from a distance when necessary. I can pray without bitterness. I can release my children, my granddaughter, and every broken relationship into God’s hands.
Will these relationships be restored? I pray they will. But whether restoration comes sooner, later, or not in the way I expect, I trust that God is still working for my greatest good. My peace cannot depend on circumstances—it must rest in Him.
Today, my gratitude isn’t because my life is perfect.
My gratitude is because God has never stopped walking beside me through it all.
Focus Phrase:
I trust God with what I cannot control.
Power Affirmation:
I release every relationship, every hurt, and every unanswered prayer into God’s hands. I will protect my peace, continue to love, and trust that God is working even when I cannot yet see the outcome.
Sunday Blessing:
May God strengthen your heart when life feels heavy, give you peace when relationships are uncertain, and remind you that your value is not determined by the struggles you face. May you find the courage to keep loving without losing yourself, to hold healthy boundaries without guilt, and to trust that God is working behind the scenes in ways you cannot yet see. Leave what you cannot control in His hands, and allow His grace to carry you one day at a time.
— Rev. Angela July