In war, surrender is clear. We tend to think in terms that one side loses while the other side wins. Dictionary.com defines the term as to” to yield (something) to the possession or power of another; deliver up possession of on demand or under duress.”
In reality, even the losing side can win through surrender. Fighting ceases. Healing is possible. Recovery begins. Redirection of energy and resources starts.
Measuring Surrender
Spiritually, surrender is similar. The losing side surrenders self-focus. Weakness is admitted. There is a strong desire for God and His ways. That desire leads to seeking Him, fresh recognition of His presence and power, and a renewed commitment to obey and follow where He leads.
Guilt is laid down; forgiveness is received. Healing, recovery, and peace are possible. The surrendering disciple gains new strength and power from the Holy Spirit.
Then he said to them all, “If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me.
Jesus in Luke 9:23, CSB
Those surrendering in war or spiritually may desire to do so conditionally. In war, negotiation sometimes if possible. Spiritually, surrender is all or nothing. You see, anything you hold back from “denying” yourself, becomes a stumbling block. It becomes an idol that is worshiped in place of the Lord. It makes fully following Jesus impossible.
Sadly that is why we see so much apathy in the church today. Surrender has been partial or conditional. Too often disciples surrender that which is painful with the desire to avoid difficulty or pain. Jesus said that self-denial goes together for the disciple with taking up “his cross daily.”
Check the pulse of your surrender. Let go, and let God. You are weak. He is strong. Trust Him completely. Lead others to check on their surrender too. Make disciples!
Photo by Bernard Hermant on Unsplash
