Surrender or Submission: The Daily Choice That Shapes Your Destiny

Are you ready to unlock a profound truth that can transform your faith journey? Many of us use the words surrenderand submission interchangeably, as if they carry the same weight. But, new believers and seasoned Christians alike, let's be clear: while both are verbs, requiring a conscious decision and active effort, their underlying meanings and the entities they're directed towards are vastly different. Every morning when you wake up, you face a profound choice: will you surrender, or will you submit?

This isn't just semantics; it's a critical distinction in Christian living that impacts your peace, your purpose, and your protection. One of the most beautiful gifts God has given us is free will. He doesn't force us to choose Him, to embrace what is Christianity truly means. He empowers us to make our own decisions, to choose our path. This divine freedom makes our daily choice between surrender and submission even more significant, especially as you embark on your spiritual growth.

The Perilous Path of Surrender: Giving Power to the Enemy

Let's dissect surrender. At its core, it means to give up all resistance to an enemy or opponent. It’s an act of capitulation, where you relinquish control and allow them to exert their authority over you. When we talk about surrender in a spiritual sense, we're talking about actively deciding to stop fighting, to stop resisting, and to let the enemy—the adversary of your soul—take control of everything God has given you or has planned for you.

We often minimize the daily decision to surrender to our fleshly desires, our fears, or worldly pressures, thinking it only affects us personally. The truth is, the consequences are far-reaching. Daily surrender to the enemy means being pulled further and farther away from God and His perfect will for your life. It means your peace is eroded, your joy is stolen, and your future is increasingly clouded by anxiety.

Consider your influence, especially if you're a parent or a leader. You wield immense power and responsibility over those around you. Daily surrender means you're putting your loved ones at risk of attack from an enemy who won't stop at destroying just you. He wants everything you have, everything God intends for your lineage, for your Christian community. This should be a sobering, even frightening, thought.

But here’s the powerful truth, baby Christian: Jesus has already won the war! You have the power to overcome!

The Liberating Act of Submission: Yielding to an Almighty God

Submission, on the other hand, means to accept or yield to a superior force, authority, or will—and for believers, that superior force is our almighty God. To yield is to give in to pressure or influence, not out of defeat, but out of trust and reverence. We actively choose to submit to God. This is a core Christian essential.

For many, this can be a difficult concept. Our human nature resists the feeling of losing or giving up control. It feels contrary to our instincts. Yet, it's absolutely necessary to lead a meaningful life within the kingdom of God. True discipleship involves learning this vital lesson. Submission becomes easier and more natural when you trust and gain a deeper understanding of God's nature— His perfect love, His unwavering wisdom, and His ultimate power.

Think about it: are we not willing to accept advice from a good friend or a respected family member, especially if they have our best interests at heart? We willingly take guidance from those around us. When you do so, you are, in essence, submitting to their counsel. Why would we hesitate to do the same with an all-loving, all-knowing God? The Bibleclearly states that "God is Love." He loves you deeply. Do you love Him in return?

Do you trust that He truly has your best interests at heart, and desires only the best for you and your family? If your answer is a resounding "yes," then the choice is simple.

Submission over surrender.

Practical Steps to Cultivate a Life of Submission

So, how to grow as a new Christian in this vital area? It starts with intentionality.

1. Daily Prayer and Surrender: Each morning, explicitly tell God you choose to submit to Him. This isn't just about avoiding sin; it's about inviting His will into every area of your life.

2. Immerse Yourself in Scripture: The more you understand God's character and promises, the easier it becomes to trust Him. Engage in Bible study for beginners and dedicate time to learn how to read the Bible effectively. Bible verses for new Christians are your roadmap.

3. Recognize His Sovereignty: Understand that God is in control, even when circumstances feel chaotic. This perspective is vital for overcoming anxiety Christian style and living a life of faith over fear.

4. Seek Wise Counsel: While your ultimate submission is to God, seeking godly advice from mature believers in your Christian community can help you discern God's will and apply it to your life. Finding a Christian church where you feel supported is key.

5. Practice Gratitude: A heart filled with thanks is a heart open to God's leading. When we appreciate what He has done, it reinforces our trust in what He will do.

   
   

Your Victory in Christ: The Promise of Submission

Psalm 91:14-17 (NIV) beautifully illustrates the outcome of choosing submission to our loving Father:

"The Lord says, 'I will rescue those who love me; I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them. I will reward them with a long life and give them my salvation.'"

This powerful promise isn't for those who surrender to the enemy's schemes, but for those who love God, trust His name, and call upon Him. It's for those who choose submission to His perfect will.

As you navigate your faith journey, remember this crucial distinction. Choosing submission isn't losing control; it's placing your life in the hands of the One who holds all control, who loves you infinitely, and who desires nothing but the best for you. Make the liberating choice today: Submission over surrender.