Bad Fruit: Control

Control feels responsible. You plan ahead, anticipate outcomes, protect against risk. But beneath this is a fear: “If I let go, disaster will strike.”

At its root, control is not care but idolatry — the belief that safety is found in your vigilance, not God’s faithfulness.

The Lie Vine

Lie: “I am safe only if I am in control.”

If I don’t manage this, it will fall apart.”
“God helps those who help themselves.”
“My vigilance protects me more than His care.

The Counterfeit Tree: Safety Idolatry

Anatomy of this tree

Walk through the core parts of this tree, following the fruit - what you are seeing - to the root lie. Expand each section for a short explanation and reflection prompts.

Fruit — Visible outcomes

Exhaustion
Strained relationships
Lack of trust
Constant tension

Reflection: Which fruit feels most familiar to you?

Leaves — Everyday actions

Over-scheduling
Rigid routines
Difficulty delegating

Prompt: What’s one small thing you could leave unfinished today?

Branches — Reinforcing patterns

Micromanagement
Perfectionism
Fear of letting go

Try: Which of these branches is most alive in your relationships?

Trunk — False belief

Control becomes salvation

Reflect: How often do you equate careful planning with ultimate safety?

Root — Core lie

Safety depends on me.

Reflect: Where do you believe God won’t protect you unless you act?

Invitation

Control promises safety but delivers slavery. There is another way — one where surrender becomes freedom.

Step into the Surrender Tree

See how letting go of control and resting in God’s sovereignty produces peace and resilience.

See the Good Tree

Control