By Tonya S. Swindell

I failed at changing people’s behavior. So it helped when I heard: “Just let God.” Then I asked for help to follow His command, especially because it was so hard.

God’s ways seemed illogical, and they just didn’t make sense; like when He covered people’s sins at His own expense. Instead of being fearful because of what I heard, He said, “Don’t be afraid. Just trust in My Word.” And instead of feeling anxious after losing my way, He said, “Be faithful. Stay at peace, and pray.”

Instead of showing pride when I accomplished something noble, He said I could be exalted but only if I stayed humble. Instead of being disappointed because of what someone does, He encouraged me to look up from where my Help comes.

I gave Him my sins and explained my sense of shame. He gave me His love and gave me a new name. I admitted my mistakes and tendency to blame others. He reminded me of grace and how mercy covers.

He told me to relax instead of dwelling on the past. I said, “You gotta help me. Only You make change last. For Your thoughts are not mine and my ways are not Yours. I need help to let go while You open doors.

I might plan in my heart, but You direct my steps. If You help, I’ll succeed so things turn out best. Thanks for Your patience, because I’ve tried on my own. Now I see why You said, ‘Let go and let God.’

Your ways are much better than what I could achieve. You help me to love in truth and in deed: love myself, love You and definitely love others. By grace I can receive because, again, mercy covers.

Let me, let You give clearer visions, then I can make better decisions. Let me, let You shape and mold. Give guidance on how to love, not scold. Let me, let You change my heart, oh God, that I may give others a brand new start.

Let me, let You create motives so pure, that my compassion for others will surely endure. Give me a clean heart and a renewed, right spirit. Help me forgive and forget without limit.

Let me, let You create change You want to see. Help me stop trying to change others into me. Give me wisdom, guidance and a refreshing new character. Instead of such seriousness, create in me laughter.

Let me, let You do what I cannot do. Help me see people’s stories from their point of view. Help me to give even when it seems hard, so others may know how great is our God.

Let me, let You make change a reality. Help me bless others without creating calamity. Let me, let you create change You want to see. Help me launch into a brand new destiny.

Give me strength to see dreams come true. Help me live so that others see You.”

Tonya Swindell writes a blog for www.inspirenewlife.org and is a teacher for Kingdom Building Equipping School (KBES.com). She can be reached at 1brightot@gmail.com.