Biblical Answer

The Illusion of Control

When everything feels out of control, it can be tempting to try and regain a sense of control over our lives. However, as the passage suggests, we are not in control of our spiritual formation. This is a hard lesson to learn, especially in a culture that values autonomy and self-determination. But the Bible is clear: we are not in control, and trying to control our spiritual lives is a futile endeavor.

The Power of Receptivity

So, what does it mean to be in control, even when we feel like we're not? It means giving Jesus free rein over our formation, intentionally designing our lives to allow Him to shape us. This is what the Bible means by "receptivity." It's not about trying to control our thoughts or emotions, but about being open to the guidance and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. As John Ortberg puts it, "receptivity is the joyful and blessed process of allowing ourselves to be shaped by the presence of God." When we surrender to this process, we experience a level of joy and liberation that we never thought possible.

The Key to Self-Control

So, how do we develop self-control in the midst of feeling out of control? The answer is not to try and control our thoughts or emotions, but to rely on God's grace and empowerment. Self-control is a skill that develops over time, and it's not about punishing ourselves for past mistakes. Rather, it's about channeling our energies and desires in a way that honors God. As the passage suggests, self-control is a blessing from God, and it's a key aspect of living a life that is pleasing to Him. By surrendering to God's guidance and empowerment, we can experience a level of self-control that we never thought possible.