The world can be a pretty overwhelming place. Actually the world is an extremely overwhelming place. From hearing about traumatic world events, to the ever changing (might I say crazy) culture we live in, to friendship issues, to loosing a loved one, or to being overcome by a wave of homework, it can feel like the earth is swollowing you whole.

I don’t know about you, but when I feel like the weight of the world is crashing down on my shoulders, I find it hard to see how God is working. It becomes difficult to see the sovereignty of God when the world appears so chaotic.

When I let my struggles overtake me, I typically end up becoming extremely stressed. I panic when I don’t have enough time to finish the impossible load of homework assigned. I fret and stress about whatever problem is eating me at the time.

I never feel peace when I let my emotions take over this way. 

As much as my worry hurts me, it is no easy feat to drop it. One would think it could be dropped like a hot potato, but this is hardly the case. Instead I cling to it like Golum does his precious ring. This is where my own pride takes the reins. Instead of giving God the reins and allowing Him to direct and lead my paths, I hold onto whatever is eating me up because I’m afraid to let it go. Afraid that if I give it to God that the situation won’t play out in my favor. Afraid that my life won’t play out the way I want it to.

And yet my sovereign Lord has my best in mind. 

As Romans 8:28 states “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.”

Even when it hurts and I don’t understand, even when the world is crashing down on my shoulders, Jesus is in control. He has conquered sin and death. He has conquered this world.

“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33