Spiritual keys are pathways for spiritual growth and maturity. As we use specific spiritual keys in the Kingdom of God, we unlock doors that grant access to a deeper life in Christ and greater possibilities for discipleship. These keys release spiritual qualities that can be cultivated into attitudes and lifestyles. It is as if God's eyes are searching throughout the earth, looking for these qualities in disciples so they can proceed unto greater growth and maturity. Surrender is one of these keys.
Surrender is difficult. When we surrender, we are letting go of control and trusting beyond ourselves. Unhealthy control causes us to embrace an illusion of safety. We think we are the most capable and secure person, so we hold on tight. But even though we think control leads to protection, it actually leads to bondage. It keeps Jesus from having access to these areas of our lives because we are not letting him in to do the work of transformation. So while control keeps us in prison, surrender leads to freedom, in Jesus.
Surrender empties us of ourselves to be filled with more of God, the Holy Spirit. Surrender causes us to let go so that our hands can be open. Our hands are now in a position to receive from the One who desires to give. Letting go empties us of ourselves and creates more space that the Holy Spirit can fill. The more we surrender and deeper we allow God to go, the more the Holy Spirit will take control of our inner life and dwell in those areas. Surrender cultivates the opportunity to be emptied of ourselves so that we can be filled with more of the Holy Spirit, Life itself.
Surrender leads to intimacy with God. As we surrender, we confront our fears and brokenness. Because of this, we have the opportunity to be fully honest with God about how we feel and think about our situation. God truly wants to know how you feel - nothing held back. God wants to listen, because God actually cares you. So be brutally honest. Honesty will lead to intimacy with God and a deeper relationship that otherwise could not be attained.
Surrender can be a journey that takes some time. But what I think Jesus hopes for is that we give him permission to enter these areas of our lives that we are called to surrender - in the terms of following Jesus as a disciple, this means every area of our lives (Mark 8:34-35). This call to surrender may be difficult, but our surrender to Jesus ultimately leads to the fullness of Life Jesus promised (John 10:10). Let us surrender to Jesus that we may find a pathway toward spiritual growth and maturity.
Jesus, may you reveal more of yourself through our daily life and Scripture that we may trust you more fully. May our trust give away to surrender, which leads to freedom and life in your name. Amen.
Blog Series: Spiritual Growth Keys
Spiritual Growth Keys: Openness
Spiritual Growth Keys: Willingness
No comments:
Post a Comment