God is in Control - Not Us

August 6, 2022

Bible Readings

Take a few minutes to read the Bible verses listed and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in how this verse applies to you this week.

Joshua 6:1-21

Memory Verse

1 Peter 5:6-7

Be humble in the presence of God’s mighty power, and he will honor you when the time comes. God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him. (CEV)

written by Ron VandenBurg
illustrated by Chad Thompson

Zoom call between Sofia and Casey. Casey is in the kitchen with a tablet. Dad is in the background. We should be able to see all three characters.
Sofia: Argh! This problem is just too huge for me to fix. What can I do?

We see the conversation from Sophia’s view in her room. Dad comes back over to the screen and says, “I have an idea.” Sofia looks questioning. Casey does too.

All three pray with Casey saying, “Lord, please take care of Sofia’s family…”

Print Comic

Have you ever faced a problem that was so big that you did not know how to fix it?

In the Bible reading today, we see that Joshua faced the big task of taking over the city of Jericho, a city surrounded by walls where no one could get in or come out. It seemed impossible to get through. But Joshua did not have to figure it out on his own. Before he led the battle, the Lord commanded him to be strong and courageous, and to not be afraid, because he would always be with him. Through Joshua’s strength, courage, and obedience to the Lord, he won victory over the city. God was faithful to his promise.

If your family argues, it can feel sad and scary. You may even want to try to fix it. But sometimes there are things that you just cannot fix, and they are never your fault. Just like in the story of Joshua, the good news is that when there are problems that are too big for you, there is no problem too big for God. He may or may not fix things exactly the way that you want, but he promises to be with you and work things for your good.

Was there a time when you had to have courage? What are some ways that God has shown his faithfulness in your life? What problems, big or small, has he carried you through? Take time to remember all the great things God has done for you or someone in your family. You can rest easy in knowing that it is okay to not have all the answers, and you will see that there is no problem that is too great for our God.

Prayer

Lord, there is no problem that you cannot handle. Give me the courage to let go of the things I cannot fix, as you show your faithfulness and goodness in my life. Amen.

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Ginnette Yonkman

Ginnette Yonkman is a clinical counselor at Chicago Christian Counseling Center at their New Lenox and South Holland locations. She is passionate about serving individuals, couples, and families struggling with a variety of mental health issues. Ginnette received her bachelor’s degree from Trinity Christian College and master’s degree from Olivet Nazarene University.