Freely Speaking Audio Devotion

Today, Andi Benson shares an honest reflection, describing her struggle with control and the exhaustion that comes from relying on her own understanding. 

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV).  

How often do we stress our way through life, convinced that if we just plan, worry, and control enough, everything will turn out perfectly? We lean heavily on our own understanding, our logic, our experiences, our limited perspective, only to end up exhausted, anxious, and stuck.  

This is an honest account of my life. Several years ago, I realized my need to control situations—not by asserting authority, but through passive-aggressive worrying and fixing, believing only I could handle things. This mindset kept me in constant internal conflict, holding on to my own ideas of what was best. 

Proverbs 3:5-6 offers a radical alternative to this thought: letting go.  

Letting go is not giving up; it is giving over. It is the active, daily surrender of our need to control the outcome of our relationships, finances, and future. It is the humble admission that God sees the entire picture while we only see a tiny corner of the canvas. When we trust God with all our heart—not just the comfortable parts—we make room for His transformation.  

Transformation requires a change of hands. We must release our grip so God can take over. When we acknowledge Him, we invite Him into the mundane tasks, the difficult conversations, and the major decisions. Only then can He make our paths straight.  

Today, what are you holding onto? What fear or plan are you gripping too tightly? Take a breath and let go. Trust that the One who holds everything also holds your future, transforming you from the inside out.  

I encourage you to say this prayer out loud: 

Lord, I surrender my need for control. Forgive me for trying to be the god of my own life. I place my trust in You, knowing Your ways are higher than mine. Transform me, guide my steps, and make my path straight. Amen.  

Thank you for joining us today. If you would like to learn more about OhSoFree Ministries, please visit us at www.ohsofreeministries.com