October 7: Surrendering Control
- Scripture: Matthew 16:24 — “Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.'”
- Reflection: In this passage, we are reminded that we aren’t alone. We are companions of One who has walked ahead of us into the unknown. How do we participate in that journey, and allow Love to accompany us?
Letting go of our need to control every outcome is integral to spiritual transition. As earlier devotional messages have indicated, we control how we respond (ideally) rather than the full scope of events. Yet God is present with us.
Consider the twelve-step prayer. “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference”
Underneath all the experiences we have, God’s love is moving. God’s goodness and intent for our wellbeing remains active. This doesn’t become a promise that suffering and hurt won’t be part of our lives. Simply that God is present and offers us support in unseen, unexpected, and surprising ways.
Giving up the illusion of total control and understanding that we don’t manage every aspect of our own fate becomes the starting point for resilience. With such acknowledgement, we become more open to accepting support, welcoming God’s presence, and connecting more deeply with the One who holds our lives in God’s own keeping. - Spiritual Practice: Identify one area of your life where you’re holding tight. Offer it to God in prayer, trusting that divine guidance will provide clarity and peace.
Song:
- “Come As You Are” by Crowder: https://youtu.be/r2zhf2mqEMI?si=HeshsJyfYfYFLYy8
The moment of surrender is not when life is over. It’s when it begins. — Marianne Williamson
Oct 7 Daily Devotional