Today’s Reflection
Surrender is both a definite decision and a lifelong process that happens day by day. It starts when we consciously decide to hand over our will and life to God. But it does not end there. . . . Each new day we will need to renew our act of surrender and offer ourselves to God again. Shifting from a self-centered lifestyle to a God-centered one takes a lifetime.
—Trevor Hudson, One Day at a Time: Discovering the Freedom of 12-Step Spirituality (Upper Room Books, 2007)
Today’s Question
In today’s reflection, Trevor Hudson describes surrender as a lifelong process. Why do you think that might be true? Join the conversation.
Today’s Scripture
Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”
—Matthew 16:24 (NIV)
Prayer for the Week
Dear God, I admit that I cannot live life on my own power. I trust that you love me and want what is best for me. Please help me each day to seek your guidance, to love other people, and to live in a way that pleases you. Amen. Submit your prayer to The Upper Room.
Something More
The Upper Room Disciplines 2023: A Book of Daily Devotions, is now available for pre-order. Disciplines has been a trusted companion for personal prayer and study, and an essential resource for pastors and Christian educators for nearly 65 years. Learn more.
Lectionary Readings
(Courtesy of Vanderbilt Divinity Library)
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5 Comments
As humans we have a tendency to accumulate. At the same time we are asked to surrender all. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. We can’t take what we accumulate with us when we pass from this life to the next. It takes a life time to let go.
I’m very hopeful that tomorrow’s worship and the announcement by the district superintendent will be both moving and accepted by the community of faith. While not an ordained pastor, a certified lay pastor is in our future. The life of this church can continue to shine, there’s hope for the future. Thank You, Lord.
Prayers for Kentucky, areas of the US struggling with heat, drought, and firestorms. Climate change must be addressed. As stewards of the earth it is our responsibility to correct the errors we have made. Our existence depends on it. Grant us much needed wisdom Lord so we can mend our ways. Thank You, Lord.
It is human to want to be in control of our lives. We foolishly believe the illusion of our control. But in truth, it is God who is in control. When we admit and submit to God and his will above our own we can rest and also be secure in the knowledge that if we seek and follow God’s will for our lives he can do great things for us and through us.
Prayers for Ally’s health and finances and David’s and the kitties health, prayers for Jill’s health and prayers for Robert and his church, may the members welcome the district superintendent’s announcement so they may remain a valuable asset to their community.
I know from my own experience from childhood to geezerness, it takes practice every day to remember to pray without ceasing because of all the evil and distractions in the world. I tell my grandchildren this and encourage them to focus on the Lord during their day, thank Him and ask for help when they are confused. Jesus wants us to have a close personal relationship with Him. Everything good comes from and is owned by Him. He just lets us use them.
12 step programs approach the problem of addiction from the standpoint of recovery one day at a time. As humans, we tend to achieve our goals in small steps. For most of us, surrender is one day at a time. Each day I say yes to God and surrender what I can. There are days when I struggle to surrender the next few minutes. I am thankful for God’s abundant grace: grace upon grace.
Thanks to each of you for your prayers for David and me, and for our kitties.
Robert, prayers for Tom continue. Prayers also for your church and the lay pastor who will be working with you. Janet, thank you for the reminder that Jesus wants to be in Intimate relationship with us. jill, prayers for your body to gain flexibility and strength. Sounds as if your memories of Roger bring some comfort as you miss him. I miss hearing about him. Thank you for your prayers. Julie, prayers continue for you in your your role as caregiver to H. Prayers also for you as you seek God’s wisdom.
I too pray that all will seek wisdom and sound policy for our planet, as good stewards. Blessings to all.
Surrender is a lifelong process, one that needs to be considered daily and often, moment to moment. Yes, our humanity, our flesh – keeps us somewhat tethered to what we “think” is best in the short term. Yearnings can be so strong, relief so desired, that we lose our focus and trust. This is true for me right now. As I continue to see no progress with my body, I am daily having to return before the Lord and submit my desire to play tennis in seven days. I want so badly to play. I overtly consciously this morning said – “But Thy will be done.” And that must accompany each prayer moving forward.
Spent some time at my sister’s playing cards and we continue to beat dad and Don badly!!! We just hoot and holler and they are pretty good sports. After lunch, Becky and I went out shopping. She was looking for a little sweater to wear over a dress and I found a few things. It is a blessing – where our relationship is at right now. Yes, we must continue to look to God – and for Him to align our hearts to His desires – and He has restored this relationship. Grateful.
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