Starting Strong but Rooted in the Right Foundation

We often begin the first quarter of the year with energy and high expectations, setting the tone for what we hope to achieve. But sometimes, if we’re honest, the foundation of our ambition is rooted in self. That was my case.

I believed that pouring myself into others and work projects would not only provide stability but also a sense of self-worth. The world promotes this culture—working tirelessly in our own strength, finding identity in our achievements. However, as children of the Kingdom of God, we are called to a completely different way of living, thinking, and relating to others.

Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:33 (ESV) “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Our worth is not in what we do, but in whose we are.

The Power of Surrender

The Word of God instructs us to surrender our hearts so that we can experience the transformational leadership and guidance of the Holy Spirit. In my walk with the Lord, every time I have surrendered or let go of control, I have seen Him move in miraculous ways.

Sometimes, it’s a creative idea for a work project—something I believed would only come after an all-nighter—but instead, it came in a moment of stillness and rest in Him. As Psalm 46:10 (NIV) says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Surrender is trusting that His ways are better than ours.

What Does Surrender Look Like?

You might be wondering: What does surrender actually mean? What does it look like in daily life?

Imagine gripping onto a thick rope, holding it tightly because at the other end is something or someone you hold dear. Your hands are hurting, but you refuse to let go because you believe that if you do, everything will fall apart—or worse, you’ll lose yourself.

Surrender is choosing to let go of the rope and allowing God to place ointment on the scars on your hands. It’s trusting that He is holding you, even when you’re no longer holding on.

Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30 (NKJV), “Come to Me, all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Laying Down Everything for Him

Anything that holds a greater place in your heart than God is worth laying down at His feet. He alone should be our first and only love. Deuteronomy 6:5 (KJV) commands us, “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.”

Seeking God first means being honest about the things that have taken up space in our lives. It means making room for Him to heal, to renew our minds, and to give us a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7 ESV).

Just as we carefully plan how we want to show up in this new year, the foundation we build upon is crucial. 1 Corinthians 3:11 (NIV) reminds us, “For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” He is the firm foundation, free of cracks or weaknesses. He desires to love, protect, and guide us into abundant life. His ways may be different from the world’s, but they are lasting and truly fulfilling.

Practical Steps to Surrender

Here are three steps that help me surrender when life feels overwhelming:

1. Pray Without Ceasing

Never grow weary of talking to God about where you are in life—your challenges, burdens, and uncertainties. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV) reminds us, “But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” Your weaknesses are God’s greatest opportunity to show His strength. Even faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains (Matthew 17:20, ESV).

2. Be Honest With God

God is not a man that He should lie or disappoint (Numbers 23:19, NKJV). Your vulnerability—whether about your mental, physical, or spiritual state—matters deeply to Him. He does not require perfection; He desires a heart that comes to Him in all seasons. John 15:2 (NIV) says, “He cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” He refines us as we come to Him.

3. Let Go and Let God

This phrase is well-known, but the true test is in practising it. God can only move in your life when there is room in your heart. Letting go is not easy, but it is a sign of deep trust. Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV) instructs us, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.”

Surrender means believing that God is greater than any situation, relationship, or outcome. It is the ultimate act of faith.

The Peace That Comes With Surrender

When people talk about surrender, they often focus on the weight of letting go. But rarely do we hear about the peace that follows.

I cannot count the number of times I have experienced unexplainable peace, even in the midst of difficulties, simply because I prayed and allowed God to be God in my life. Isaiah 26:3 (NIV) says, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in You.”

If you’re struggling to surrender, I want to assure you that there is peace and victory on the other side of your obedience. As you lift your eyes to Him, know that He is already reaching down to journey with you.

Will you trust Him today?

Chola Tshilanga

Hi, I’m Chola Tshilanga! A passionate content creator and digital expert using her gift of writing to help others live a more intentional life in God while fulfilling their purpose, using God’s word as a compass.

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