The other night my youngest was not a happy camper. He likes to things his way, on his terms and in his time. When that doesn’t happen, his mood instantly changes. His voice gets snarky. He starts to stomp. Eventually, he will go to his room close the door and mope.

I may know where he gets it from. I like things done my way. To be perfectly honest, when I don’t get my way, I have a little temper tantrum on the inside. I try really hard to be gracious and not to show it on the outside although I think my husband sees through that most times. Don’t we all have at least a little of the “my way” attitude within us? I hope I’m not in this alone.

Here is where it is really a problem. I tell God, continually through prayer, exactly how things should be done my way. I lay out my entire plan for how the job, ministry, family etc should go. I can go in to great detail. I may throw in other people’s reactions. I’ll dream, pray, big. God’s view is much bigger than mine. There are ripples effects to my plan. Ones that might not be so good for me. I can’t see them. God can.

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

God is at work for good in my life. Yet, when I’m called into an adventure that only God can create, I’m tempted to stay in my caged view of “my plan”.  My head knows that God’s way is better. God’s plans always work out better than mine. I am always grateful for His timing, provision, and plan. Yet, my heart wants what it wants and it wants it now.

Trusting God’s timing, provision, plan has gotten easier with experience. I know deeply that He is working for good in my life. And, I still struggle with wanting certain things my way.

God, forgive me, forgive my pride and arrogance that gets in the way of trusting You. I always want Your will and Your way in my life. Thank you for the many times I have been able to see how You are at work for good in my life. I pray those are the roots that continue to run deeper within.

Maybe that prayer applies to you, too. Will you join me in surrendering our will to His? There are times when it is easy and times when it is hard, but every time God’s way is the best way.

How have you learned to surrender your will to His? Share your story here and breathe life and bring hope to others.