Surrender is not a popular word. It implies weakness or defeat. Yet for the Christian, surrender is the path to victory. Jesus calls us to deny ourselves daily, take up our cross, and follow Him (Luke 9:23). That requires daily surrender.
Surrender means giving up control – not just once, but again and again. Each morning brings new decisions, challenges, and temptations. Without surrender, we drift. But when we offer our day to God, we align with His will and receive His strength.
Romans 12:1 urges us to “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God – this is your true and proper worship.” A living sacrifice means continually laying ourselves down – our plans, our preferences, our pride.
This isn’t about losing identity. In surrender, we actually find our true self in Christ. Jesus said, “Whoever loses their life for me will find it.” (Matthew 16:25). Letting go of our agenda allows God’s perfect will to unfold.
Daily surrender includes our thoughts, words, work, relationships, and reactions. It’s praying, “Lord, have Your way in me today.” It’s inviting the Holy Spirit to lead.
Surrender doesn’t mean passivity – it means responsiveness. We still act, plan, and work – but under God’s direction. Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us to “trust in the Lord with all your heart… and he will make your paths straight.”
The beauty of surrender is that it leads to peace. We no longer carry the burden of trying to control everything. We can rest in the goodness and sovereignty of God.
Start each day with surrender. Before the busyness begins, pause and pray. Give your day to God. Offer your heart. And trust that He will do more with your surrender than you could with your striving.