Finding Rest in Daily Surrender
Life often brings us questions that cut to the heart of our faith. One of the most significant questions we face as believers is: How do I truly surrender to God on a daily basis? It’s a question that reveals a desire to move beyond mere belief into the lived reality of trust, dependence, and peace in Christ.
A recent response to a post on surrender asked exactly this, seeking practical guidance on what it looks like to surrender fully to God. The question resonates deeply because it touches on what it means to walk with Christ daily. Here’s my heart in response.
Surrender isn’t about lofty ideals or abstract concepts. It’s about trusting the Lord to live His life through us—in every moment, every decision, and every circumstance. For me, it begins with trusting in God’s character and His purposes.
I’ve walked through situations that initially brought a pang of worry or angst. Yet, in those moments, the Holy Spirit reminds me of an essential truth: My old self was crucified with Christ. I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. This truth frees me to respond not with anxiety, but with trust. My life is not my own, and His Spirit dwells in me, guiding me step by step. It’s not theoretical; it’s a daily, moment-by-moment reality.
The Beauty of Trusting God’s Plans
Over time, I’ve realized that trusting God isn’t about avoiding troubles; it’s about embracing His presence in the midst of them. Whether an outcome seems “good” or “bad” by the world’s standards, I’ve seen how God works through every situation to reveal His grace and fulfill His plans. Knowing this, I now look forward to seeing how He will work through me, through others, and even through difficulties to accomplish His purposes.
This trust doesn’t come from my own effort. It’s not about striving harder but about yielding to the Holy Spirit, responding to His promptings, and testing them against Scripture. My part is to take steps of faith as He leads, and He handles the rest. This is where surrender becomes real.
The Daily Cross: Letting Go of Self
One lesson I’m continually learning is the importance of not letting my flesh take the lead. This is my daily cross to bear—choosing to crucify my old desires and patterns so that Christ can live His life through me. Paul’s words in Galatians 2:20 guide me: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” It’s not always easy, but it’s freeing. I don’t have to rely on my strength or wisdom. My role is to obey the Spirit and trust Him with the outcome.
The Joy of Daily Surrender
Over time, surrender has become a joy rather than a burden. Each morning, I dedicate the day to Him, saying, “Lord, this day is Yours. Lead me, guide me, and use me however You choose.” Throughout the day, I pause to recalibrate, especially in moments that could lead to anxiety or frustration. I simply pray, “Lord, I trust You to live Your life in and through me in this moment. I trust you to guide me into walking by Your Spirit and not my flesh.” And at night, I rest in His sovereignty, faithfulness, and love. This rhythm has brought incredible peace.
Starting Right Where You Are
If you’re wondering how to begin, start where you are. Surrender isn’t about perfection; it’s about trusting the One who is perfect. Bring your questions, struggles, and heart before Him. Day by day, moment by moment, let Him teach you how to rest in His grace.
One shift that has helped me is moving from a transactional view of faith—focused on what I can do for God or what He can do for me—to a relational one, where I simply walk with Him and trust Him to work in me and through me. This shift has changed everything.
Finally, I encourage you to consider journaling as a way to connect with God. Writing down your thoughts, prayers, and reflections can help you grow in relationship with Him. It’s a simple yet powerful way to express your trust, capture His faithfulness, and keep your heart open to Him.
Let’s continue encouraging one another to rely on Him more fully, one step at a time. Resting in Christ is not just a phrase; it’s a daily reality we can live out together.