For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. Isaiah 55:8 niv
Today I surrendered. I quit fighting. My strength is small anyway. My drive and determination have waned. The struggle is too much. I surrender. Yet still, it is not easy. I had hopes. I had dreams. But all my efforts have produced so little. I simply cannot pursue them anymore.
Today I surrendered. That’s not the same as giving up. In the past out of frustration, anger, and disappointment, I would try to throw in the towel and grudgingly move forward. But today it is different. The struggle is still real within my mind and emotions. But today I decided to lay it all down at the feet of Jesus. Today I willingly set aside what I wanted, what I thought would be amazing to pursue and enjoy in my reality. For whatever reason, for whatever purpose, my goals, my ideals just don’t seem to be aligning with God’s purpose for me.
So I surrender, not to discouragement, not to disappointment, but to His design. He is always faithful to fulfill His Word. And His Word says He will work all things together for my good. So I surrender to let Him do what He knows is best. Even though I don’t feel it right now, even though I don’t see his plan – I surrender. And now I can rest. I no longer have to carry this weariness. I am no longer burdened by the weight of trying to carry my will. Instead, I choose to embrace His will. (Matthew 11:28)
Jesus said to all of them, “If people want to follow me, they must give up the things they want. They must be willing to give up their lives daily to follow me. Those who want to save their lives will give up true life. But those who give up their lives for me will have true life. Luke 9:23-24 ncv
What might you need to surrender, laying it at His feet in worshipful abandon?
So let us together pray as Jesus did:
Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done. Luke 22:42 niv
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