Biblical Answer

Can I still have a sense of control?

Yes, you can still have a sense of control, but it is not about controlling your spiritual formation or your circumstances. Instead, it is about intentionally designing your life to give Jesus free rein over your formation. This means surrendering your will to God's sovereignty and trusting in His plan for your life.

Self-control is a skill that is learned through the power of the Spirit within you. It involves mastering your own impulses and emotions, your willfulness, your tongue, your behavior, and your moods. This is not about relying on personal will power, but rather, it is a gift of the Holy Spirit given through faith in Jesus Christ. When you practice self-control, you are not trying to control your circumstances, but rather, you are allowing God to work in and through you.

In fact, self-control is a strategic countermeasure to the insatiable cravings of sin. It is a great blessing that brings joy and liberation. When you have self-control, you are able to channel your energies into what is truly important, and you are able to live in contentment without being controlled by your desires. This is not a bleak, joyless stoicism, but rather, it is a life of freedom and joy in Christ. As you surrender to God's sovereignty and trust in His plan, you will find that you have a sense of control that is rooted in faith and trust, rather than in trying to control your circumstances.