How to Submit to God
Today we will talk about how to submit to God. Many Christians do not know what this means. To submit to God is to willingly and humbly place our lives in the hands of our Creator, acknowledging Him as the ultimate authority over our lives. It means trusting Him fully, obeying His commands, and seeking His will above our desires. This journey of submission is not always easy, but it’s essential for our spiritual growth and our relationship with God. As we explore the scriptures, let’s keep an open heart, allowing God’s Word to guide us, encourage us, and bring us closer to Him.
The Meaning of Submission
Submission can sound like a scary word, but in the Bible, it carries a sense of love and respect. The Hebrew word for submission is “שָׁמַע” (shama), which means to hear or listen. In the New Testament, the Greek word “ὑποτάσσω” (hypotasso) translates to “to arrange under” or “to subordinate.” It implies a willingness to put oneself under the authority of someone else, valuing their guidance and decisions over our own.
Historically, submission was vital in both Jewish and early Christian societies. For instance, women were often called to submit to their husbands as a reflection of the Church’s submission to Christ (Ephesians 5:22-24). However, submission in the Bible is not just about hierarchy; it’s about mutual respect, love, and the recognition that God has a perfect plan for each of us. As we learn to submit, we become part of His larger story.
Regarding submission, James 4:7 instructs us to “submit yourselves, then, to God.” This simple act opens the doors for God to work in and through us. We must empty ourselves of pride, ego, and independence, allowing God’s Spirit to fill us with His purpose and love.
The Nature of God’s Authority
Understanding the nature of God’s authority helps us grasp why submitting to Him is crucial. God’s authority is not oppressive; rather, it is benevolent and protective. When we submit to God, we are acknowledging that He is all-knowing, wise, and loving (Psalm 147:5). Jesus taught about the kingdom of God and how He operates within it, reminding us that His thoughts and ways are much higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Furthermore, Matthew 28:18 states that “all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me,” underscoring the supremacy of Jesus as our Lord. By submitting to His authority, we are putting our faith in His goodness and plans for us. It is a safe choice to align ourselves with the God who created the universe and desires the best for us.
In submitting to God’s authority, we are also accessing the peace, protection, and purpose He has for our lives. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us not to be anxious but instead to bring everything before God in prayer. When we do this, we begin to experience the joy of living under His oversight and guidance.
The Role of Faith in Submission
Faith is at the heart of submission. Without faith, it can be challenging to submit our lives to God. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” When we submit to God, we are trusting in His promises, even when we cannot see the outcome or when things get tough.
For instance, Abraham exemplifies faith in submission by responding to God’s call without knowing where he would end up (Genesis 12:1-4). He stepped out in faith, demonstrating that submission sometimes entails facing the unknown but trusting God’s guidance and provision. Similarly, Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean on Him for direction.
When we navigate life’s decisions, having faith in God enables us to yield. We can seek His will through prayer, the wisdom of Scripture, and the advice of mature believers, knowing that He knows what is best for our lives (Romans 8:28). We grow in our relationship with Him as we lean into that trust.
How to Actively Submit to God
Submission is not merely a one-time decision but an ongoing process of daily commitment. Here are some practical steps to actively submit to God:
- Prayer: Consistent communication with God helps us align our hearts with His will. Philippians 4:6-7 challenges us to bring everything to God in prayer.
- Reading Scripture: We must immerse ourselves in the Word of God. It provides guidance and clarity on how to live according to His will (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
- Obedience: Submission necessitates obeying God’s commandments. John 14:23 assures us that if we love Him, we will keep His words.
- Seek Wise Counsel: It can be beneficial to seek advice from fellow believers (Proverbs 15:22) as they can offer perspectives grounded in God’s Word.
As we begin to implement these practices, we will find our hearts softening to God’s leading. Colossians 3:2 tells us to “set our minds on things above,” which means focusing on God and His desires for us rather than the worldly distractions around us.
The Benefits of Submitting to God
When we submit ourselves to God, the benefits are abundant. First and foremost, we draw closer to Him. James 4:8 encourages, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” This closeness brings a sense of peace and security, knowing that we are under His care.
Moreover, submitting to God often leads to a transformed life. 2 Corinthians 5:17 proclaims that if anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation. As we walk in submission, we begin to reflect God’s character and purpose in our lives.
Additionally, a life marked by submission fosters unity and serenity in our relationships. Ephesians 4:2-3 urges us to be humble and gentle, which manifests God’s love toward others. Relationships thrive when built on trust and mutual submission, allowing us to mirror Christ’s love to those around us.
Ultimately, by submitting to God, we align ourselves with His grander plan for humanity. Jeremiah 29:11 reveals that He has plans for us—plans to prosper us and not to harm us. Our submission becomes part of a larger narrative of hope and redemption that God is writing throughout history.
Final Thoughts
In our journey of faith, learning how to submit to God becomes a fundamental aspect of our relationship with Him. By understanding the nature of submission and recognizing God’s authority, we can cultivate a faith that enables us to trust in His plans and paths for our lives. Engaging in daily practices like prayer, reading Scripture, and seeking wise counsel nurtures our heart and allows us to flourish in our walk with Christ. The benefits of living a life centered around submission are profound: we grow closer to God, experience transformation, and foster healthy relationships with one another.
As we reflect on what it means to submit to God, let’s remember it’s an ongoing process filled with grace and growth. We may stumble, but the heart of submission is recognizing our need for Him and willingly yielding our lives into His capable hands. May we all strive to deepen our submission to God, experiencing His love and promises more fully every day.
Let’s support one another in this pursuit, encouraging each other to grow in faith and trust, embracing the purpose that God has for each of us as we navigate our spiritual journeys together.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4