Surrender

Matthew 16:24-25 James 4:7, Luke 9:23, Philippians 2:13, Proverbs 3:5-6

Hanging on to one’s own ways, thinking, and living bring sorrow, regret, and problems. Followers of Christ must surrender to the Lord and do that which He desires in order for Him to work through and bless their life. As E.A. Hoffman wrote many years ago:

“You have longed for sweet peace, and for faith to increase,
And have earnestly, fervently prayed;
But you cannot have rest, or be perfectly blest,
Until all on the altar is laid.

Is your all on the altar of sacrifice laid?
Your heart, does the Spirit control?
You can only be blest and have peace and sweet rest,
As you yield Him your body and soul.”

Hoffman wrote of the surrendered life in the other verses of this challenging hymn. Many do not have the “peace of God” because they have not surrendered all to the Lord and His ways.  Many believers insistent about going their own way and doing their own thing live in sorrow and regret because they refuse to surrender to the Lord’s will and way. The key to the power of God is to surrender all to the ways, Word, and leading of the Lord.

Prayer: Lord, I give my life, heart, and mind to You. Work and move in me so I can be Your tool this day.