Sermon Recap
Many of us try to control our lives and please people, thinking that we can shape our own future and be everything the world wants us to be. But no matter how hard we try, that kind of life leaves us anxious, insecure, and empty. We weren’t created to be independent—we were made to depend fully on God. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust the Lord with all our hearts and to submit to Him in every area of our lives. True peace and direction don’t come from controlling things ourselves, but from letting God lead us completely.
In the Bible, Saul and David show us the difference between living for control and living in trust. Saul was driven by fear of others' opinions and tried to take matters into his own hands, which led to jealousy, insecurity, and failure. David, on the other hand, trusted God even when it didn’t make sense. He refused to harm Saul even when he had the chance, because his heart was fully submitted to God. David wasn’t perfect, but he lived with a deep desire to honor God—not to impress people. His actions showed that his life was sourced by God, not by his own strength or desires.
This kind of life—trusting, submitted, and set apart—is what God wants for each of us. Jesus didn’t just die to forgive us; He died to set us free and fill us with His Spirit so we can live transformed lives. We don’t have to be controlled by fear, sin, or what others think. Like David, we can live lives that reflect our total trust in God. And when we do, others will see Jesus in us. The choice is ours—will we keep trying to control our lives, or will we let go, trust God fully, and live to please Him alone?
Key Scripture
Read through these passages together:
Discussion Questions
Discuss together, pushing yourself toward transparency. The more we are authentic and humble with one another, the more we can grow in Christ.
In what areas of your life do you struggle most with control or people-pleasing? Why do you think it’s hard to let go in those areas?
How does Saul’s insecurity and desire for approval reflect common struggles we face in today’s culture?
What does David’s example teach us about trusting God even when it doesn’t make sense to others—or even to us?What might change in your daily life if you truly submitted every area of your heart and choices to God?
Prayer
God, I confess that I often try to control things instead of trusting You. I care too much about what others think and too little about what You desire. But today, I want to let go. I want to give You my whole heart—every thought, every plan, every fear. Help me to live like David, fully submitted to You, not just in words but in how I live each day. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so I can walk in freedom, not fear. I choose to trust You with all that I am. May my life bring You honor and reflect Your love to the world around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Life Application
Pray a surrender prayer each morning this week. Start your day by saying, “God, I trust You with my whole heart. Help me to let go of control and follow Your lead today.” Then choose one area—like your schedule, a relationship, or a decision—to intentionally surrender to God that day.
Do a spiritual inventory. Set aside 10–15 minutes to list out the areas of your life where you’re still holding on to control. Next to each one, write a simple statement of trust—for example, “God, I give You my job—I trust You to guide me in it.” Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live it out.
Don’t Forget!
Additional Resources
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