Become New with John Ortberg

God Is Not a Control Freak (And You Don’t Have to Be Either)

4 snips
Oct 29, 2025
Is God controlling or simply sovereign? This engaging discussion reveals how God's creative freedom invites us to trust Him more deeply. Learn how letting go of control can lead to spiritual freedom and creativity. Practical advice and biblical wisdom offer fresh perspectives on managing anxiety and the importance of responsibility in leadership. John Ortberg even encourages listeners to embrace deliberate mistakes to break free from perfectionism. Explore the transformative power of releasing control and living in trust.
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INSIGHT

Creation As Permission, Not Coercion

  • Genesis presents creation as 'let there be', not violent command, implying creativity without coercion.
  • 'Let there be' bequeaths power and space for other agents to act and create with responsibility.
INSIGHT

Permission Is A Stronger Power Than Command

  • 'Let there be' is stronger but less controlling than an imperative like 'make it so.'
  • It assumes divine power while distributing ability and space for independent action.
ANECDOTE

Pancakes As A Small Act Of Creation

  • Ortberg describes deciding to make Swedish pancakes for 25 young people even though it felt daunting.
  • He prepared three pans, found joy in the process, and the pancakes proved it was both possible and good.
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