A Faith That Flourishes When We Let Go

By Glenda Shelby Reynolds

Encouraged by the Word. Empowered by the Spirit.

Whether you are leading a team in the marketplace or guiding a ministry at your church, you have felt the immense pressure to "make it all happen" in your own strength. Leadership often comes with the challenge of balancing strategic planning, achieving measurable results, and maintaining constant productivity. In a world that rewards control, the Kingdom of God calls us into something different: trusting the One who holds all things together.

The truth is, there will always be aspects of leadership we cannot control—timing, outcomes, other people’s choices, or even the “rain” we need to see growth in our work or ministry. Zechariah 10:1 reminds us that the rain—whether literal or symbolic—comes from the Lord. And sometimes, we just need to ask. Sure, here is a revised version of the "Time to Think" section that emphasizes the importance of taking time to think and the challenges of real-life leadership:

Time to Think

It is often said that anxiety thrives in the soil of over-control. Faith, however, grows when we surrender. This is not a call to ignore responsibility; it is an invitation to release the things that belong in God’s hands. As author and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter once said, "A leader takes people where they want to go. A great leader takes people where they don't necessarily want to go, but ought to be." Trusting God to lead us often means He takes us on a journey we did not plan, to a destination better than we could have imagined.

Real-Life Leadership Moment

I mentored a woman in a senior leadership role at a company who was managing a high-profile project. Every detail had to be perfect, and she carried the stress alone. When a key piece of the project was delayed, something completely outside her control, she faced a critical decision: panic and push harder or pause and pray.

We discussed her options, and she chose prayer. In that space of release, God provided a solution she never could have orchestrated. Not only was the delay resolved, but the project’s outcome exceeded expectations, opening unexpected doors for her career.

The same is true in ministry. I have seen leaders tirelessly work to fill event seats, only to discover that God was more concerned with the hearts of the few who came than the number of chairs filled.

Reflecting on this experience, I am reminded of the countless times I have faced similar leadership challenges. The pressure to control every detail and ensure success can be overwhelming. Yet, in those moments of surrender, I have witnessed God's faithfulness in ways I could never have imagined. Trusting in His timing and provision has not only brought peace but has also led to outcomes far beyond my expectations. This journey of faith continues to teach me that true leadership is not about having all the answers but about relying on the One who does.

Sure, here is a revised version of the "Real World Encouragement" and "Time to Act" sections:

Real World Encouragement for Marketplace and Ministry Women

Sister, whether you are navigating the unpredictable waters of corporate leadership or shepherding souls in ministry, you will encounter seasons that require you to trust what you cannot control. In those moments, remember you serve a God who sends the rain. Instead of micromanaging the outcome, ask Him to do what only He can do. Take a deep breath and name one thing you have been striving to control. Now, release it to God. Surrender is not weakness—it is alignment with Heaven’s agenda. 

Prayer is not a last resort—it is your most strategic leadership move. You are not failing if you are not in control. You are making room for God to move.

With you on the journey,

Glenda