Letting go to surrender my control over things and giving control to the Lord is difficult to do. If I am honest with myself, there are times that I have released that control to God, but then have taken it back. Has that ever happened to you?

 

We are human; only God can teach us how to do this spiritual discipline. Humans don’t naturally release our control over areas of our life.  I have learned that I must continually ask God to show me how to release my control to Him in all areas of my life. Surrender happens daily, often hour by hour, even minute by minute. We need to let God begin to bring healing and restoration to our lives, and live a closer, more intimate life with Him. 

 

Think of our earthly bodies as homes with lots of rooms and closets. God desires to spring clean, so He can bring new life to each room and closet, each attic and basement. Is there a deadbolt lock on a door because you don’t want Him to enter, since the memories are uncomfortable or painful? Is it easier to ask God to bypass that room?

 

Once we allow Him into that space, He breathes new life into that space. He brings spiritual healing, restoration, and transformation that only He gives. Surrender any negativity, doubts, fears, and addictions to His power and love. Watch what He will do when we give Him access to the sins in our lives.  God is truly at work setting us free from all the world’s garbage that has infiltrated our lives. God’s love for us is indescribable.  He is a gentle and patient God.

 

Jesus was born both in human flesh and as deity. He died on a cross to take away our sins and break the chains of bondage that surrounds us, to give us life and freedom. Jesus told His disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23).  Jesus had a heart of humility towards God and His disciples. When He surrendered His life (giving up His control to do things His way) it allowed God to work through Him. By the power of the Holy Spirit, He did mighty things during His ministry (i.e., teaching God’s Word, healing the sick and many miracles) before He gave His life. Jesus brought honor and glory to our Heavenly Father and was used by God to proclaim the good news.

 

When we give Him access to all our heart and He brings complete healing, we are free to serve others with the love of our Lord Jesus and bring honor and glory to God. Our bodies are God’s temple where He resides, allowing us to personally experience and enjoy His presence. When we focus our attention on His presence, we can proclaim and show forth His presence to those around us.

 

If you find yourself wrestling with God over control in your life, spend time in His presence. Invite Him to show you how to release what He wants to take control of. Trust Him to bring about healing, restoration, and transformation in your life. Jesus Christ loves you dearly; He gave His life in order to give you a new life in Him.

 

Here’s a closing prayer:  Thank you, God, for always loving us and actively pursuing our hearts. Thank you for revealing how we should surrender and release our control into your hands. Set us free from all garbage that may be residing in us. Guide and direct our steps to bring you glory and honor.  May Your Presence living in us be the shining light that will touch the lives of others. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

 

Journeying Together,