Key Bible Verse: "If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life … you will find true life" (Mark 8:35). Bonus Reading:Mark 8:34—38

Michael poured out to me what was happening to him (see 7/19). Because the Spirit was working in him, Michael saw that his need to take charge kept him from his responsibility to love and help those around him. He confessed his pride and fear of losing control. He prayed an honest prayer of commitment to Christ.

That same day Michael shared this with the small group from his town. Some had experienced Michael's controlling personality firsthand and decided he'd always be that way. But the same Lord who'd broken open Michael's heart made them receptive. Some confessed their own need for release.

Weekly, over breakfast, the group talks about living under the Master's management. They realize that the repatterning of their need to be in control continues daily. Sensing fear of losing control in a relationship or challenge is a warning signal that they're slipping back into old habits that don't work. But the more they admit the tendency, the less it happens. When they greet, each finger of their high-fives stands for a word of their motto: "Relax, Christ is in control!"

My Response: What control signs tell me I need to relax?

Thought to Apply: The great stumbling block in the way of some people being disciples is that they are so gifted that they won't trust God.