Giving up the illusion

TJC
Dec 17, 2025
4 min read

I am a Kingdom Man. God is my provider. He has given me gifts and talents to exemplify Him with the work of my hands.

Via The Joshua Commission

“Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭28‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I have more scars on my body than I could have imagined. But scars are signs of healed wounds and often come with stories. Several of my scars remind me of contentment, gratitude and control. Some of those stories tie back to pushing too hard and making a bad judgement that resulted in an accident, followed by surgery and then rehab. The most recent follows cancer surgery, and dealing with long term effects that I can not control.

It is an illusion to think we are truly in control of much of our lives, acting as though we can keep pushing and ignoring God’s directions and His voice. We focus on working harder, ignoring rest and sabbath; “if we can just accomplish our next milestone then everything will work out according to our plan”. Go back and read today’s verses - Our plans are never as good as God’s. And when we ignore His direction, you will have consequences.

Your scars may also look like broken family, soiled reputation, lack of friends, constant busyness, depression, even thoughts of suicide. Control freaks wear a lot of scars physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

God knows better, He provides everything that we will need. Yes we must work but as He directs. When we put Him in control of our time, talents, treasures - He will direct our wealth, our health, our relationships; they will all flourish.

One of our early skills in 2025 was a family meeting to set goals and shared objectives. As we close in on the end of this year spend some quiet time preparing to share with your family how well you personally did to include failures.

Consider this prayer from Franciscus “Trust in the Lord, because the Lord will not dissapoint you! He never disappoints; He is a good friend, always at our side. Dear families, always live life with faith and simplicity, like the Holy Family of Nazareth. May the joy and the peace of the Lord be always with you,”

THE KINGDOM MAN’S CREED

I am a Kingdom Man. I am created by God to bear His image. I am a son and viceroy for my Fathers work. I am a warrior, lover, teacher and king.

I am a Kingdom Man. Like Joshua, I will be strong and courageous. I will train my mind and body for the battles to come. I will discipline my heart, eyes and tongue to be steadfast and faithful to the calling on my life.

I am a Kingdom Man. If a husband, I love and serve my wife, if a father, a loving father to my children. I will love and lead them as Christ loves the Church. If a brother, uncle, guardian, mentor or friend, I will give honor in all of my relationships. I will lead, teach, correct and train in the spirit of righteousness.

I am a Kingdom Man. I am called to break down barriers and free others from strongholds. I am a Peace Maker. My armor is Truth, Righteousness, Grace and Humility. I will stand in the gap for my neighbor to defend gospel justice for the marginalized.

I am a Kingdom Man. God is my provider. He has given me gifts and talents to exemplify Him with the work of my hands. I will work with diligence and excellence. My labor will be honest and its fruits purposeful.

I am a Kingdom Man with a Kingdom vision. Commissioned by Christ. My life is the Father’s. I am intentional. I will grow in my faith, be consistent in my actions and leave a legacy worthy of the race I have run.

I AM a Kingdom Man!