SURRENDERED LIFE, PATHWAY TO FREEDOM

INTRODUCTION

BIBLE READING: Galatians 2:16-21

16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

17 But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.

18 For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor.

19 For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God.

20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

KEY VERSE:

MEDITATION:

Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, powerfully articulates the transformative nature of surrender to Christ. He declares, “I am crucified with Christ” (Galatians 2:20). This profound statement signifies a radical shift – a death to the old self, the self that relied on its own efforts and the law to earn God’s favor.

This “crucifixion with Christ” is not merely a theological concept; it’s an experiential reality. It’s about acknowledging our own powerlessness and surrendering our will to the will of God. It’s about recognizing that our attempts to earn God’s love through our own efforts are futile and ultimately lead to spiritual and emotional exhaustion.

The Story of Nancy

The story of Nancy, as presented in the devotional, beautifully illustrates this principle. Despite her best efforts and medical interventions, Nancy’s struggle with infertility left her feeling defeated and hopeless. However, when she chose to surrender her situation to God, a remarkable transformation began. By focusing on serving others and trusting in God’s plan, she found a new sense of peace and purpose.

This surrender wasn’t a passive resignation; it was an active act of faith. Nancy chose to trust in the God who loved her deeply and who had promised to be her strength and her song. This act of surrender opened the door for God to work in her life in miraculous ways, ultimately blessing her with the gift of motherhood.

The Benefits of Surrendered Living

Freedom from Bondage: Romans 6:6-7 “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be rendered powerless, that we should no longer be slaves to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin.” When we surrender to Christ, we are freed from the bondage of sin, fear, and self-reliance. We no longer strive to earn God’s love through our own efforts but rest in the knowledge that we are loved unconditionally.

Experiencing True Peace: Philippians 4:6-7 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Surrender brings a deep sense of inner peace and tranquility. We find rest in God’s presence, knowing that He is in control and working all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).

Living a Purpose-Driven Life: Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” When we surrender to Christ, we align our lives with His purpose. We are empowered to live a life of significance, serving others and making a difference in the world.

Receiving God’s Abundant Grace: 2 Corinthians 9:8 “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” Surrender unlocks the flow of God’s abundant grace into our lives. We receive His strength, His wisdom, and His provision in ways we never imagined.

Practical Steps to Surrender

Acknowledge your need for God: Matthew 7:7-8 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Recognize your own limitations and acknowledge your need for God’s grace and mercy.

Repent of your sins:1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Turn away from sin and seek God’s forgiveness.

Yield your will to God: Matthew 16:24 “Then Jesus told his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” Commit to following God’s will for your life, even when it may be different from your own plans.

Seek God’s guidance: Psalm 25:4-5 “Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, my hope all day long.” Spend time in prayer and Bible study, seeking God’s direction for your life.

Trust in God’s promises: 2 Corinthians 1:20 “For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.” Believe in God’s love and faithfulness, even when you don’t understand His ways.

Conclusion

Surrendered living is not about giving up on our dreams or aspirations. It is about aligning our desires with God’s will and trusting Him to lead us on a path of abundant life. As we surrender our lives to Christ, we experience true freedom, joy, and fulfillment.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Habakkuk 1-3; Revelation 14