Not lifting a finger

When I told my brother that my new philosophy of life was called the “not lifting a finger” principle, he looked at me aghast and informed me that I don’t do enough dishes as it is. At which point I nearly stuck out my tongue and informed him that that is not what I meant, thankyouverymuchsir. My new philosophy of life is not new at all. Nor is it particularly profound, except when you think about it, which is when you realize that the implications are mind-blowing.

Lemme ‘splain.

A few weeks ago I realized that whether we recognize it or not, all human beings are manipulators. We all enter situations thinking about how we can work them to make things go our way…we work hard to say and do the right things so as to make the right impression, we wriggle our way into meeting certain people. Essentially, we have the notion that in order for our lives to turn out right, we need to mold them ourselves into exactly the right shape.

And then He said, “oh ye of little faith.”

Because the implication of that kind of lifestyle is that I HAVE to be in control. I have to make things work out. I have to say the right thing and do the right thing in order for circumstances to work out for my good. But the truth is that every moment of my days is ordained by a sovereign God who is holy, full of tender love, and worthy of my radical obedience. Constantly taking back control is petty, faithless and sinful…not to mention futile since His Will will be accomplished, whether because of me or despite me.

So I’m trying to live consciously helpless. Instead of giving myself a headache by analysing my life to death, I just relax. I just try to be myself and enjoy the conversation. And pray that the people around me wouldn’t see my petty, flailing self, but the Spirit of God in me. Instead of manipulating I surrender and say, “let’s see who you have ordained for me to meet today, Lord.”

And you know what? I have joy. JOY. And freedom! Instead of being anxious, I can bask in my God’s infinite wisdom and goodness and grace. I still need to work hard and plan for the future, but I do so with my heart constantly listening for God to tell me which way to go, what to say, and how to live. I am more aware of His blessings now. The more vulnerable I make myself to Him, the more His LOVE wraps itself around me and becomes my shield. The more I trust Him, and lay flat before Him and tell Him “your will, Father” the more sure I feel that my future is secure. 

Not lifting a finger to control your life can seem scary….but I can’t think of a better way to live. I’ve tried other ways, but they just left my anxious, depressed, hurt and confused.

God is mighty. Rest in His sovereignty.