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Selfishness is a real-life issue that all humans deal with, including Christians. Often, selfishness is correlated with greed and pride.
The Scriptures speak passionately about the importance of humility. Notably, Peter wrote, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you” (1 Peter 5:6).
The idea of biblical surrender connects to submission and humility. In James chapter 4, James writes a warning to submit oneself to God, and the devil will flee (James 4:7).
This application implies that a life of devotion to God and reliance on Him results in a departure from evil.
We live in a cosmic war between darkness and the Light, and the stakes are eternal. Christians have the beauty of being armed with the gift of salvation and of being led by the Holy Spirit.
Surrendering to God is acknowledging that His ways are best, and that His expectations, promises and teachings lead to the gates of heaven. It is by faith that the battle is won.
Complete surrender is hard. From competitive athletes to simple arguments to full-out war, waving the white flag signals defeat—something that, to many, is against their nature and their very makeup of competitiveness. However, surrendering to God allows for a will that is not only empowered but also guided by God Himself.
An athlete can still be competitive, but competitive under the protection of God, giving all glory to Him. At the same time, friendly discussions and debates can still occur, but under the guidance of kindness and love. And yes, wars are fought at the will of God, and living under the providence of the Lord will not only give heavenly protection but also godly standards in the darkest of times.
God does not want a part of His creation’s life; He wants the entire life. It is no coincidence that Paul taught that whatever you eat, drink, or do, do all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).
Surrendering to God does not promise a life of ease. But it does release a burden and provide a genuine understanding that something greater is happening, something that mere mankind cannot fathom.
We can learn from the early Christians and crusaders who shouted, “Deus Vult,” or “God wills it.”
Surrendering proves that strength is not found in resisting God, but in resting under His mighty hand.