“…that the Messiah may dwell in your hearts through faith.” Ephesians 3:17
Surrender is yielding to the authority, guidance and direction of God in your life. When you think about the word surrender, what initially comes to mind? The word surrender is defined as “to cease resistance to an enemy or opponent and submit to their authority.” From a spiritual perspective, it is giving up the obstacles that we put in the way by trying to take control out of the Divine hands and into our own. Reflect on a time when surrender was personal. Was it difficult to surrender? Why or why not?
In John 4:1-42, we read the story of the Samaritan woman. In this encounter, Jesus presents to her a new plan for life and a choice to make; surrender to the new life of hope or continue in her current path and knowledge. Like the woman at the well who chose surrender over her pride, doubt, and fear. We are being called to surrender to salvation first and to follow God’s plan next.
God has called us to a higher level of living. His plans are greater than ours. But in order to live in the zone for Christ, it takes the same surrender as any skilled or world-class athlete.
Review Matthew 16:24-26 and Ephesians 3:14-21 for additional reading.
