Surrendering to the Lord
Surrender to the Lord is a foundational concept in Christianity, encapsulating the idea of giving God full control over one's life and trusting in His will. This trust is not a passive resignation, but an active engagement in spiritual worship through daily living, as urged in Romans 12:1-2. To surrender means to engage in prayer, seek God's guidance in all decisions, and apply biblical principles to life's challenges. It's about discerning 'what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect,' and allowing that discernment to guide our actions. Through surrender, believers find peace and contentment in God's plan, experience a renewed mind, and undergo a transformation that aligns them with the holy and acceptable will of God.
Persistence in Prayer
Jesus teaches us about the power of persistence in prayer. He shared a parable about a persistent widow to show that we should 'always pray and not give up' (Luke 18:1). In Luke 18:7-8, we find a promise that 'God will bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night.' This persistence is not about the repetition of requests but about maintaining a steadfast faith that God hears us and will respond in His perfect timing. While it can be challenging when prayers seem unanswered, believers are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty, seek His purpose in the waiting, and continue to grow spiritually. As we face various trials, including the heartache of loss, the comfort and solace from Scripture can be a profound source of strength. Remembering to 'pray continually' as advised in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, we understand that persistence in prayer is a hallmark of a faithful spiritual life.
Drawing Closer to God
'Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you' (James 4:8). This promise of proximity to the Divine is one of the great assurances for believers. Drawing closer to God is an intentional process that involves devoted prayer, engaging with Scripture, and joining in fellowship with other believers. By prioritizing God's presence in our lives, we can cultivate a lifestyle that fosters intimacy with the Creator. When we feel distant, these practices serve as pathways to restore our connection, address our spiritual barriers, and reconcile our doubts and fears through faith. As we seek God with all our heart, as promised in Jeremiah 29:13, we find that He is always ready to welcome us back with open arms.
FAQ
Q: How do I surrender to the Lord?
A: Surrendering to the Lord involves giving Him control of your life, trusting in His will, and being willing to follow His Word and His ways. It is a process of prayer, seeking His guidance, and embracing a lifestyle of spiritual worship.
Q: Why do I not feel conviction?
A: A lack of conviction may indicate a need to spend more time in prayer and seeking God's presence. Trust that the Holy Spirit works to convict believers, and opening your heart to God can lead to transformation and repentance.
Q: What if I pray for something over and over again and don't get it yet?
A: Persistence in prayer is important, but God's timing and will may differ from our desires. Continue to trust in His sovereignty and that He hears your prayers, responding according to His perfect will and timing.
Q: What to do if you feel far from God?
A: If you feel far from God, seek Him through prayer, reading the Bible, and spending time with other believers. God promises that if you seek Him with all your heart, you will find Him. He loves you and desires a close relationship with you.
