The Practice of Submission to God
Our journey begins with prayer, as advised in Philippians 4:6, where we are reminded to be anxious for nothing and present our requests to God with thanksgiving. Communication with the Divine through prayer is the foundation of a submissive heart, as it's the channel through which we express our desires, struggles, and seek alignment with God's will. Engaging with Scripture is equally essential; Psalm 119:105 describes God's word as a lamp to our feet, guiding us in darkness. As we meditate on these divine words, we gain wisdom and insight into God's character, shaping our decisions and actions to reflect His teachings. Obedience to His commandments, as Jesus implores in John 14:15, is the truest form of love and submission, demanding that we choose God's standards of love, truth, and holiness over our personal inclinations. Furthermore, humility is the soil in which submission thrives, a recognition that God's ways are higher than our own (Proverbs 3:5-6). Lastly, in seeking godly counsel (Proverbs 11:14), we surround ourselves with wisdom that steers us towards God's will, ensuring safety and righteousness in our decisions.
Living Out Submission through Service and Worship
Service and worship are practical expressions of our submission to God. Jesus Christ, the paragon of divine submission, taught us through His life that true greatness lies in service (Mark 10:45). When we serve others, we emulate His example and demonstrate our allegiance to God's will. Worship, as described in Romans 12:1, goes beyond songs and prayers; it's a lifestyle of honoring God with every action and thought. It's about presenting our bodies as living sacrifices, which is our reasonable service. By embracing a heart of service and a life of worship, we not only grow individually in our spiritual journey but also contribute positively to the community around us, reflecting God's love and grace in tangible ways.
Conclusion
As we conclude this exploration of submission to God, we are reminded that the journey is ongoing, marked by continuous growth and daily decisions to align our will with the Divine. From the quiet prayers of the heart to the public declarations of faith, submission is a thread that weaves through the very fabric of our existence, akin to the unwavering faith required as we anticipate the Second Coming of Christ. It is our hope that this article serves not only as a guide but also as an encouragement for all who seek to live out their faith in everyday life. May we all continue to strive for a deeper understanding and practice of submission, holding fast to the promise that God's grace is sufficient for us, even when the path seems arduous.
FAQ
Q: What does it mean to practically submit to God?
A: Practically submitting to God involves aligning our thoughts, actions, and decisions with God's will and teachings. It includes daily practices such as prayer, scriptural engagement, obedience to God's commandments, cultivating humility, seeking godly counsel, serving others, and living a life of worship.
Q: How can I incorporate submission to God in my daily routine?
A: Incorporating submission to God in your daily routine can be done by starting the day with prayer, reading and reflecting on the Bible, making choices that reflect God's standards, seeking advice from godly individuals, and looking for opportunities to serve others in love and humility.
Q: Why is it important to seek godly counsel?
A: Seeking godly counsel is important because it helps us discern God's will and provides safety and wisdom in decision-making, as stated in Proverbs 11:14. Wise counsel from others who follow God can offer guidance and encouragement in our spiritual journey.
Q: What is the significance of service in submitting to God?
A: Service is significant in submitting to God because it reflects Jesus' own example of servanthood. Serving others demonstrates our commitment to God's command to love our neighbors and acts as a practical expression of our faith and submission to His will.