Journey With Jesus: 31 Days Devotion From the Gospel of MarkSample

Surrendered not to men, but to God

Hardly anything is more surprising than an underdog beating a frontrunner in a competition. Rarely is a match more exciting than a losing team scoring a hat trick and claiming victory in the end.

Jesus, with his normal appearance and gentle spirit, looked like the underdog who was up against the powerful political and religious leaders of His day. As He stood before the Jewish leaders and Roman authorities on trial, many gave false testimonies in desperate attempts to pin a crime on Him.

Though no evidence of wrongdoing was found (14:55-56), Jesus was wrongly accused of blasphemy (14:64) and sentenced to death by crucifixion (15:15), a capital punishment that was highly cruel and humiliating. What a terrible injustice!

Was Jesus defeated by His opponents? Had He succumbed to their evil schemes? Absolutely not! The truth is that Jesus willingly endured suffering out of surrender to God the Father, not to men. Jesus chose to fulfil God’s plan when He declared, “...Yet not what I will, but what You will.” (Mark 14:36b).

Unknown to those who wanted Him dead, Jesus’ death was part of God’s plan all along. He has scored the ultimate hat trick. He has turned the situation on its head. He has won!

Jesus’ death is also our win because, by His wounds, we are healed of our slavery to sin so that we can live righteously for Him (1 Peter 2:24). On the cross, Jesus completely defeated the true Enemy, Satan, and all other spiritual powers (Colossians 2:15).

By surrendering to God, Jesus has won. Surrendering is the attitude of giving in to God. Instead of insisting that we know it all, we entrust ourselves to the One who is truly in control. Instead of persisting in ‘my way,’ we allow God to lead us in living life ‘His way.’

What is one area in your life that God is calling you to give in to Him? If you find yourself struggling, focus on God. Know that He has your best interests at heart, and trust that He has a perfect plan for you. There is no one and nothing more trustworthy, loving, and powerful than Him. You’re in great hands. Give in to Him today!