In ministry, work, or even daily life, this question often arises in an honest heart: “Am I doing this because of my own desire, or because God truly wants to use me?” This question seems simple, but it actually touches the deepest motivation within us.
Proverbs 16:9 says, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” On one hand, we are given the freedom to think, plan, and act. But on the other hand, if we are truly children of God, our steps will be arranged by Him and often, not in the direction we expect.
The problem arises when we want to control everything too much. We begin to feel that without our intervention, everything could fall apart. We want to ensure everything goes “according to plan,” but whose plan? God’s or ours?
Jesus Himself gave an extraordinary example. When in the Garden of Gethsemane, He prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me; yet not as I will, but as you will.” (Matthew 26:39). This is the most honest moment between personal will and total surrender to God. Even Jesus, who is perfect, showed that the Father’s will must be above human impulses.
A sign that we are being controlled by personal desires usually appears as restlessness, inner pressure, or frustration when things do not go as we want. Conversely, when we are used by God, the situation may still be difficult, but there is a peace that surpasses logic.
Romans 12:2 gives important advice: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Perhaps today is the time to pause and ask, “Lord, am I still trying to control everything? Or am I truly surrendering and letting You use my life?” Surrender does not mean being passive, but rather actively allowing God to lead, not our own ego.
