“Surrender” is a word that carries with it a whole load of negative connotations. And yet, surrender can bring a host of benefits and blessings that we never could have anticipated.
The two atomic bombs dropped on Japan to end their involvement in World War II … well, the consequences were horrific.
But Japan's surrender, though difficult, ushered in a period of intense rebuilding under U.S. guidance. The occupation brought democratic reforms, economic aid and access to new technologies, transforming Japan from a war-torn nation into one of the world’s leading economies within decades. Indeed, Japan's post-war revival is a remarkable example of blessings following surrender.
And a complete surrender of our lives to Jesus – honestly, from where I sit – brings even greater blessings.
Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (ESV)
That speaks of complete and utter surrender – It’s no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me. Surrender doesn’t get any more radical, more complete, than that.
I was recently at a church service when we prayed this prayer – a prayer of surrender to Jesus, a prayer that will, without doubt, usher many blessings into our lives.
May the Lord Jesus, take our minds and think through them, take our hands and bless through them, take our mouths and speak through them, take our spirits and pray through them, and above all, Lord Jesus, take our hearts and love through them, So that it is You who lives and works in us. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.
The Christian life is a life of surrender
That’s God’s Word. Fresh … for you … today.
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