The Fear of a God We Can’t Control

Scripture Focus

"Then the men of Beth-shemesh said, ‘Who is able to stand before the Lord, this holy God? And to whom shall he go up away from us?’" – 1 Samuel 6:20 (ESV)

Devotional Reflection

The ark of God had been returned to Israel after being in Philistine hands. But instead of celebrating, the people of Beth-shemesh were afraid. They had seen God’s holiness in a way that made them uncomfortable—a reminder that He cannot be tamed or managed.

Loss often tempts us to want a God we can predict, one who will always act in ways we understand. But the God who is truly good is also perfectly holy. His ways are higher than ours, and His presence will sometimes disrupt our expectations.

Learning to trust Him means letting go of the illusion of control. It means remembering that His holiness is not against us—it is for us. The God we can’t control is the very One we can completely trust.

Inhale Truth, Exhale Trust

God’s holiness may stretch me, but His goodness will never harm me.

Breath Prayer: Inhale: “You are holy…” Exhale: “…and I trust Your ways.”

Practical Application

Reflect on a time when God acted differently than you expected. How might that experience invite you to trust His wisdom over your own understanding?

Journal Prompt

Where do I most try to keep God predictable? How can I let His holiness deepen my trust in His goodness?

Closing Prayer

Lord, You are holy, and Your ways are higher than mine. Forgive me for trying to keep You manageable. Help me to trust that Your holiness and goodness are always working for my good and Your glory. Amen.

Invitation to Live with Truth, Goodness, and Beauty

A God small enough to control is too small to trust. His holiness makes His goodness secure.