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Trapped by Control: How to Find Freedom
There is a question that every Christian would do well to Day by day, who or what controls my life? Control can be godly or ungodly, depending on whose authority is in place. It's harmful to us when it undermines our freedom to choose what is right. For many of us, the Lordship of Jesus is continually being challenged by ungodly controls that come from people, past and present situations, and even from within ourselves - fear being one of the key issues. The enemy is seductive and deceptive. His primary aim is to gain control through our sinful beliefs and behaviors. When control is not in the hands of God it's in the hands of the kingdom of darkness.Wrongful control spoils relationships and seriously damages lives. This book takes a closer look at how and why people control. Controlling behavior is always a symptom of a deeper issue; it's a sinful response to inner wounding and insecurity. As God reveals the roots of control we can choose to forgive those who have hurt us and receive His comfort, His acceptance and His healing at a deep level. This book is therefore ideal for those who want to understand ungodly control in their own lives or in others and find the keys to walking in freedom.
114 pages, Paperback
First published December 28, 2008
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About the author
David Cross
150 books7 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
December 20, 2017
David Cross gives a great bible-based overview on the many forms of control we exert on others and we ourselves are exposed to. He covers many different forms of manipulation and oppressive behaviours which control people's lives, such as the use of fear. The book is an interesting and helpful guide on recognising and resolving oppressive thought and behavioural patterns, which all stem from an inappropriate and ungodly use of authority and power. He describes it as often originating from a Spirit epitomised by the Old Testament character of Jezebel.
On the one hand, I agree and think that this book delves into important spiritual, theological and psychological considerations which probably many Christians and non-Christians are almost entirely ignorant of. Demonic possession is likely an area that is frequently downplayed. In many ways this could be a beneficial book and I think should be treated as an introductory read. However, I rated it somewhat lower because I think it provides a too simplistic view of these matters and too quickly brushes aside modern medical practices which include some considerable progress in the field of psychology, psychiatry and therapy. An understandable omission, but I think considerably hampers the quality of this read. Learning to understand and recognise the rhythm of our bodies for instance in my view is not necessarily an ungodly form of control.
Another consideration which I find is a large shortcoming in this book, from a theological perspective many of our struggles in life some of which are dealt with here, such as broken relationships, unwholesome attitudes stemming from past hurts and traumas, fears of others, indeed fears in our own lives, manipulative behaviours and other problems, may not necessarily have its root in demon possession. Ungodly control and a lack of freedom in our life due to forms of oppression other than demon possession is a consideration not sufficiently discussed. In fact from my reading was given almost no space whatsoever.
Though my criticisms predominate in this review whereby I highlight my perceived shortcomings of the book, they should not detract from the fact that I enjoyed this book and find it a helpful challenge to indeed see whether we are permitting ungodly control in our life. It is the Holy Spirit that should be leading and directing our lives, not coping mechanisms or self-devised ideas which eventually lead to a less fulfilled life. This book is a useful first read if finding freedom from ungodly control, in whatever shape or form that may arise, is something you are thinking about.
On the one hand, I agree and think that this book delves into important spiritual, theological and psychological considerations which probably many Christians and non-Christians are almost entirely ignorant of. Demonic possession is likely an area that is frequently downplayed. In many ways this could be a beneficial book and I think should be treated as an introductory read. However, I rated it somewhat lower because I think it provides a too simplistic view of these matters and too quickly brushes aside modern medical practices which include some considerable progress in the field of psychology, psychiatry and therapy. An understandable omission, but I think considerably hampers the quality of this read. Learning to understand and recognise the rhythm of our bodies for instance in my view is not necessarily an ungodly form of control.
Another consideration which I find is a large shortcoming in this book, from a theological perspective many of our struggles in life some of which are dealt with here, such as broken relationships, unwholesome attitudes stemming from past hurts and traumas, fears of others, indeed fears in our own lives, manipulative behaviours and other problems, may not necessarily have its root in demon possession. Ungodly control and a lack of freedom in our life due to forms of oppression other than demon possession is a consideration not sufficiently discussed. In fact from my reading was given almost no space whatsoever.
Though my criticisms predominate in this review whereby I highlight my perceived shortcomings of the book, they should not detract from the fact that I enjoyed this book and find it a helpful challenge to indeed see whether we are permitting ungodly control in our life. It is the Holy Spirit that should be leading and directing our lives, not coping mechanisms or self-devised ideas which eventually lead to a less fulfilled life. This book is a useful first read if finding freedom from ungodly control, in whatever shape or form that may arise, is something you are thinking about.
June 19, 2024
Excellent
Control is very real and we need to be aware of when it is happening to us. Also when we are doing it ourselves. This book can be re read multiple times as we can never learn enough on the subject.
Control is very real and we need to be aware of when it is happening to us. Also when we are doing it ourselves. This book can be re read multiple times as we can never learn enough on the subject.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews