Surrender

Opening Verse:

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.” – James 4:7-8 (NKJV)

Introduction:

Our spiritual journey is often marked by a profound transformation, where we let go of our old selves to embrace a new life in Christ. This path, while challenging, leads us to become new creations, reborn through the Holy Spirit. It’s a journey of submitting to God, resisting temptation, and drawing closer to Him.

Devotional Story:

Peter, a man once entangled in worldly pleasures and desires, found himself at a crossroads. Realizing the emptiness of his pursuits, he yearned for a deeper, more meaningful life. One evening, as he reflected on his life, Peter was struck by the words of James 4:7-10. He realized that to walk in his new spiritual self, he needed to let his old flesh self die.

In a symbolic act of surrender, Peter knelt down and prayed earnestly, submitting himself entirely to God. He sought forgiveness for his past and asked for strength to resist worldly temptations. As days turned into weeks, Peter noticed a profound change in himself. He found joy in simplicity, strength in humility, and a sense of peace that he had never known before. His laughter, once hollow, now resonated with genuine joy. His heart, once divided, now beat with a singular purpose – to serve and glorify God.

What This Means:

Peter’s transformation is a powerful reminder that when we let our old selves die and walk in our new spirit selves, we experience a rebirth in Christ. This process involves deep introspection, earnest repentance, and a steadfast commitment to God.

Think About This:

1. What aspects of your ‘old self’ do you need to let go of to walk in your new spirit self?
2. How can you practice drawing closer to God daily?
3. What does it mean to you to be a ‘new creation’ in Christ?

Prayer:

Lord, I come before You, humbly submitting my old self to Your will. Guide me in shedding the layers of my former life and help me embrace the new creation I am in You. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, that I may walk in Your ways and grow closer to You each day. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” – James 4:10 (NKJV)*