When you are trying to control everybody's reaction

Do not fear, God is with you and will strengthen and uphold you.

Isaiah 41:10

When you are trying to control everybody's reaction. There is usually more happening here than the obvious problem. You can be honest about what happened without becoming what happened. Let truth describe the circumstance without allowing it to define your worth. Fear is skilled at turning possibility into a forecast. Bring the forecast of fear under the truth and lordship of Jesus Christ. You do not need to clean this up before you bring it to Christ. He is not surprised by what the polished version leaves out.

What conclusion about yourself did this circumstance seem to confirm? What part of that story needs to be surrendered to truth?

Lord Jesus, stop the reflex in me that keeps repeating what You are trying to change. Guard my heart and lead me into the response that reflects You. Amen.