Peace in the Power of Surrender

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Yesterday, as I was meeting with my life coach, I complained a bit about how much of what I'm dealing with right now in terms of my circumstances is outside my control, and I do not like that one bit. 

I'm having to be patient as I wait for my house to sell.  I have to trust that everything will fall into place in so many other aspects of my life.  

My life coach slyly said, "You're the one who is trained theologically, so maybe you can tell me a bit about how this time in your life might be connected to the season of Advent." 

I thought, "How dare you make me think theologically about this?! I want to have a pity party!"  But I knew that there was something there.  Advent is a time of waiting and anticipation, and I can't help but think it's not a coincidence I'm waiting during a season of waiting.  

In a world constantly pulling us in different directions, surrendering our desired outcomes can feel counterintuitive. We often cling tightly to our expectations, believing that our worries and efforts will shape the future in a way we desire. 

Yet, if we take a moment to pause and reflect, we'll realize that true peace and freedom reside in letting go of the illusion of control. In surrender, we discover a profound transformation, enabling us to reconnect with our inner selves, others, and, ultimately, our Creator.

Eckhart Tolle, in his groundbreaking work The Power of Now, reminds us: 

“Life will give you whatever experience is most helpful for the evolution of your consciousness.” 

This powerful statement encapsulates the essence of surrender. 

When we release our tight grip on outcomes, we allow ourselves to be open to life's lessons. Through surrender, we embrace whatever life brings our way—trusting that growth can be found even in challenging times. 

It is a leap of faith that can transform our perspective, transitioning from a rigid attachment mindset to fluid acceptance.

Scripture offers further wisdom on surrendering to God’s purposes. Proverbs 3:5-6 states: 

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” 

This passage encourages us to relinquish our need for control and trust in God’s divine plan. When we acknowledge God and let go of our limited understanding, we open ourselves to a path that might lead us to places we could never have imagined. 

Surrendering to God means recognizing that God's vision for our lives is far greater than our own and trusting that God guides us toward our highest good, even when we face uncertainty.

David R. Hawkins, in his amazing book Letting Go, provides a powerful insight: 

“Letting go is the relinquishment of the need to control, especially the outcome.” 

This notion is liberating as we begin to understand that peace is not found in managing every detail of our lives but in releasing the burdens of worry and anxiety. 

When we stop clinging to specific outcomes, we often find a space for joy, creativity, and serenity to flourish. Letting go aligns us with a more spontaneous and fulfilling life, where we’re no longer held hostage by fear of failure or disappointment.

Further, surrender is not passive but an active engagement with faith and trust. When we challenge ourselves to relinquish our anxiety about the future, we experience an incredible sense of freedom. 

We learn to appreciate each moment as it comes, acknowledging the beauty in uncertainty. Surrender allows us to experience life more fully, fostering resilience and hope. 

As we embark on this journey of surrendering to God’s purposes, it is essential to remember that God is for us, not against us. Romans 8:31 reminds us of this profound truth: 

“If God is for us, who can be against us?” 

In moments of fear or doubt, we can ground ourselves in the assurance that we are supported by a loving Creator. The act of surrender then becomes one of courage, not weakness, as it requires us to place our trust in something greater than ourselves.

During this season of Advent, I encourage you to practice surrendering your outcomes to God. Take a deep breath and release your grip on what you think you need or want. Embrace the freedom that comes with this release. Trust that God is working for your good in every situation. 

By surrendering, you will unlock the door to peace that surpasses all understanding, leading to a transformational experience that will light your path. 

Remember, surrender allows God’s will to unfold in your life, bringing unimaginable blessings and comfort. Be courageous in your surrender, and embrace the peace that follows.

May this be so, and may the grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us all, now and forever.  Amen.  

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