Surrender 101Sýnishorn

Let’s define surrender. It refers to the act of yielding or giving up, most often thought of in the context of a conflict, competition, or struggle. It involves relinquishing control or resisting further resistance. Surrender can take many forms, but what does surrender look like? Is it about waving the white flag in defeat? Or raising your hands, conceding defeat, or relinquishing a position?

Perhaps surrender involves giving into one's emotions, yielding to God, or surrendering to circumstances beyond one's control. It's often associated with acceptance, letting go, or acknowledging defeat. Saying you need to surrender and the act of surrendering are two different actions. However, surrender can also be a powerful act of courage and wisdom, allowing one to find peace or move forward in a more harmonious way.

Several years ago, a family member told us that we had to move from our current home (at that time), which was located on a relative’s rural property. Initially, we were shocked. The news was unexpected. Immediately, my husband grabbed my hand, and we prayed. We asked the Lord to intervene and help us find another place to live. In that season of trust, I learned to surrender. I reminded myself to listen to the Lord’s voice and His direction continually.

About 18 months later (it felt like 36 months), we found a suitable place to live, which was twenty-four miles from our former home. When I remember how God moved us to our new zip code, I’m stunned and amazed at how all the pieces fell together. Our new property is perfect for us. It’s as if the Lord saved this peaceful slice of Heaven just for us. I know for certain that we were meant to live here, but first, I had to completely surrender to God’s will. I would have settled for much less if it were up to me.

This story of our journey with God continually reminds me that surrender doesn’t necessarily have a negative outcome. Most of our walk with the Lord is full of situations where we must obey God and place our trust in His perfect plan. He isn’t a dictator or a cruel manager of our requests. He is a loving Father. There is no end to how He wants to bless us. We must follow Jesus and surrender our lives to Him.