The word “surrender” conjures up many feelings within us. For some, it brings up terror for it means giving up control and entrusting one’s own affairs to another. Depending on your past experiences (especially during your childhood), you may be highly self-protective of your independence. On the opposite side, you may find yourself continually seeking for someone else to protect, provide, and guide you. The latter is a great attitude if the one you seek is our wise King. But if you place this kind of dependence outside of God’s choices for your counselors, leaders and guides, you may fall prey to the foolishness or wickedness of this world.
The first several chapters of Proverbs are full of advice about trusting in God’s wisdom. In order to do this, we must give up the notion that “we know best.” The Lord may lead you to experts in a particular field to give you advice. But still, ask the Lord for wisdom and peace regarding the counsel they give. If you struggle with being overly independent and always trying to work out things on your own, the Lord wants to call you to “sweet surrender.” I call it “sweet” because when we completely let go and ask God for His counsel, follow all His ways from the Word and His leading during our prayer times, and listen to wise counselors He brings our way, we will be filled with sweet peace.
“My daughter, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let them out of your sight; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot with not stumble; when you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared” Proverbs 3:21-26
Do you desire to have “sweet sleep?” Do you lay in bed anxiously thinking about how to work out the problems in your life? Surrender yourself to trust God’s wisdom and will for your life. Nothing is impossible for God. As long as you are truly seeking to live in His will and in full obedience of His Word, He promises to work all things together for your good (Romans 8:28).
Excerpt from More Beautiful By The Day - a devotional by Sue Corl
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