I don’t think anything resonates more with the human heart than the desire to be in control. We see the evidence of the desire for control in toddlers throwing tantrums to adults manipulating people they claim to love. The desire to control is rooted in a false belief we are more powerful than we are. And at the core of the gospel message is relinquishing our earthly control to the fullness of God’s ability, sovereignty, and kindness to control all things rightly. 

The Bible is filled with passages addressing why and how to let go of our plans and desire to control and give them to God. Here are 6 (relatively well-known) verses to remind you why you can let God be God instead of you.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.–Jeremiah 29:11

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”–Psalm 46:10

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.--Romans 8:28

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;  in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. –Proverbs 3:5-6

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.–Proverbs 16:9

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.–Ephesians 3:20

When you are anxious about how you will make something work out a particular way, let God speak to you through the truth of His word and remind you–He is trustworthy, loving, and ample enough to handle anything you’re facing (even if He doesn’t do it like you think He should.)