In the first surrender blog I talked about surrendering on the battlefield and what that looked like. But then I got to thinking about what occurs before the battle field. It’s an act of humility. Let me show you what I’m talking about.
In one sense humility is surrendering and laying down our plans to pick up Christ’s plan. My mind works best with pictures, so allow me to paint you a picture here of what this could look like.
We are called to put on the full armor of God in Ephesians 6. If we are putting on armor we must be a soldier/knight. When a knight would prepare for battle, he would go before his king and be given permission and instructions for the battle. So we have this knight who is going before his king in full battle armor with his shield slung over his back and his sword at his side. He approaches with confidence, but with humility. When he comes before his king he kneels and waits for instructions. Let’s picture this knight taking a knee before his king, unsheathing his sword and holding it point down in front of him between himself and the king. The king then approaches to bless him and give him instructions. It is at this moment, that the knight is fully protected. The king is watching any threat that may approach from behind, he has his sword in hand and is able to watch whatever comes from in front of him.
This is humility. It is submitted strength. It is strength surrendered to a higher authority. It is surrendering our own plans and pride in order to serve and follow the plans of the KING. For Christians in particular it is surrendering our plans for the future to take up God’s plan for our lives.
Take my story as a small example of this.
In middle school and the first half of high school I wanted to be a physical therapist who specialized in aquatic therapy. This was until God got asked for my plans. I surrendered my plans for the future to Him, and He has given me a new plan for the future. A plan the involves serving Him in any manner He asks of me. To go around the world and share His love with those who may have never felt His love or heard His name. It is the reason I am going on this World Race. It was not easy in the early stage, but with each passing day, the future looks better and better.
It’s Proverbs 3:1-6
Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart
My son, do not forget my teaching,
but let your heart keep my commandments,
for length of days and years of life
and peace they will add to you.
Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you;
bind them around your neck;
write them on the tablet of your heart.
So you will find favor and good success
in the sight of God and man.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.
