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Control Is the False Idol Many Pursue
Fullness flows from relationships that encourage appropriate collaboration
Somewhere along my path growing up, I became shy — at least, that is what others call it. I can remember when I was very young, I had a certain amount of courage and boldness. I still have a certain amount of bravery that rises from my values.
Most of the time, though, because I am introverted, I prefer to stand back and observe rather than forge ahead and be heard. Without really meaning to, I have adhered to the quote,
“It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt.”
Or, as Proverbs 17:28 explains,
“Even fools who keep silent are considered wise; when they close their lips, they are deemed intelligent.”
Keeping silent, being compliant, and conceding control have served me well. I have been well thought of and described as measured, self-assured, wise, and in control. In truth, I am none of these things.
Most of the time, I would rather stay in the background. However, being called into a pastoral career as a spiritual guide and leader of congregations in faith, I found myself forced to step up or out. I didn’t want to be the center of attention, yet I had to be…
