Eye-opening Secrets: The Beauty And Treasure Found In Submission
Devotional
“Submit yourselves one to another out of reverence for Christ.” - Ephesians 5:21
The word "submission" often carries a negative connotation, stirring up the stinky eye and the bent lip. Today, the word submission ushers in resistance and builds walls. However, when viewed through the lens of the Bible, submission takes on a profound and beautiful meaning. It is not about losing one’s identity or power; rather, it is a conscious choice to yield to a higher authority out of love, respect, and reverence.
At its core, submission is an act of humility. It involves recognizing that we are not the ultimate authority in our lives. God, as our Creator and loving Father, holds that position. When we submit to Him, we acknowledge His sovereignty and trust His perfect plan for our lives. It's like willingly choosing to do the blind fall test that the world practices as a trust exercise. “I am not sure if you will be there to catch me, but I will fall in hope and faith, believing I will be caught.”
The Bible is replete with examples of submission. Abraham, often called the father of faith, demonstrated remarkable submission when God commanded him to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac (Genesis 22). Although the command was incomprehensible, Abraham obeyed without question, trusting God's goodness.
In the New Testament, Jesus, the ultimate example of submission, willingly laid down His life for humanity. His obedience to the Father's will is the greatest act of submission ever recorded.
Submission is not merely about obeying rules or conforming to expectations. It is a heart attitude, a posture of surrender. It involves letting go of our desires and agendas to embrace God's purposes. It is choosing to trust Him even when the path is unclear or difficult.
Submission also involves submitting to one another. In Ephesians 5:21, we are called to submit to each other out of reverence for Christ. This mutual submission fosters unity, love, and respect within relationships. It involves putting the needs of others before our own, seeking to build up rather than tear down.
Today, let us examine our hearts. Are we truly submitted to God? Are we willing to yield our lives to His perfect plan? Are we demonstrating love and respect by submitting to one another? May we embrace submission as a beautiful act of worship, recognizing that it is in yielding to God's will that we find true freedom and fulfillment.
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God, so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” - 1 Peter 5:6-7
Let us pray: Lord, help me embrace submission's beauty. Give me a heart that is willing to yield to Your perfect will. Teach me to love and serve others with humility. In Your name, I pray. Amen.
How has this devotional challenged your perspective on submission? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
