In our discussion of the essential elements for trusting God, we first discussed T-Take Him at His word and then yesterday discussed R – Rest in His Presence. We acknowledged the importance of believing that God doesn’t change His mind and can be trusted to do as He promises. We also acknowledged that by resting in His presence, we rest in the knowledge that God is in control, which alleviates our need to strive to make things happen.
In walking with the Lord to learn how to more intentionally and deeply trust Him, the third essential element He highlighted to me was: U – Understand the Outcome Doesn’t Depend on Me.
In trusting God, I must relinquish personal control while, in essence, telling God, “I believe your way is best – whatever that may be.” For me, that often means I have to give up control of understanding – even understanding or knowing what He is doing or what the outcome will be.
My understanding of others, all situations, and myself is limited. Therefore, I cannot rely on my understanding, but I can be confident in God knowing all things – including the outcome of my situation.
“Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding” (Proverbs 3:5 AMP).
As I trust God, I believe that even in the hard days, even in the challenges I face when I do not see the resolution, God can turn my messes into something good.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28 NIV).
What outcome do you need to leave up to God?
U – Understand the Outcome Doesn’t Depend on Me.
S – Accept That God Is Sovereign.
T – Testimony of Others and My Own Previous Experiences
(If you have a question you’d like Dr. B to answer, contact her here now. Your name and identity will be kept confidential.)
A short brief about Hope Prevails.
Hope Prevails
Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey through Depression
Dr. Michelle Bengtson
Speaking from personal and professional experience, a neuropsychologist unpacks what depression is, shows how it affects us spiritually, and offers hope for living the abundant life.
Neuropsychologist Offers Hope to Those Struggling with Depression
-By 2020, depression will be our greatest epidemic worldwide
- An estimated 350 million people worldwide suffer from some form of depression
- Helpful features include personal stories, biblical truths, prayers, and music recommendations
In Hope Prevails, Dr. Bengtson writes with deep compassion and empathy, blending her extensive training and faith, to offer readers a hope that is grounded in God’s love and grace. She helps readers understand what depression is, how it affects them spiritually, and what, by God’s grace, it cannot do. The result is a treatment plan that addresses the whole person—not just chemical imbalances in the brain.
For those who struggle with depression and those that want to help them, Hope Prevails offers real hope for the future.
Hope Prevails is available now wherever books are sold. To find out more, see: Hope Prevails Book.
