(But Not The Modern Way)

I was driving to work with the radio on, listening to some worship music. Usually when I play music while I’m driving, I don’t really pay attention to which song it is, but with worship, it’s different. I don’t feel distracted when I’m listening to the words or even singing along (if I know the words).

That particular day, the song playing was a new version of “I Surrender All,” which is one of my favorite hymns! I didn’t know most of the new part, but for the bridge, they played the original hymn’s words (I’ve noticed they do that a lot nowadays). 

But in the background of the singing, there was another voice adding “all your trials and your families,” or something like that. I thought that was an interesting touch, and again this style is popular with modern songs. Then “all your dreams and your goals,” sang through the speaker.

That caught my attention, and I didn’t actually hear the rest of the song. Most people acknowledge that we should trust God when we’re in trouble, but not so many people truly surrender everything to Him. Believe me, I’m still working on that one.

Giving God our dreams and aspirations—that can be hard! It’s our life, right? These are things we want to do! They shouldn’t interfere with our spiritual life; does God really have to be included in them?

That answer is YES! The truth is, if you only give God your problems, you’re using Him as a get-out-of-jail-free card instead of seeing His true power and love. If you only let Him help with half your life, you’ll only see half the benefits (or none at all, since God wants to be trusted and worshiped ALL the way!).

I know it can be tricky letting God have the reins completely. But He promises in Jerimiah 29:11

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, 

saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, 

to give you an expected end.

God has a plan for you, and it is wonderful. Sometimes focusing on our own dreams distracts us from the purpose God has for us, and a lot of times it can delay the wonderful benefits that come from following God.

Although it can be hard, and you may struggle with fully surrendering everything to God, He promises that it will be worth it in the end. I have a sticker on my phone that says, “Let go and let God,” and I think that just about fits perfectly with this post!

That is what I mean by the title “How to Live Your Best Life.” It’s not all about you and what you want for yourself. It’s about God and how much He loves you and wants to use you! And letting Him do so will bring the best rewards you could ever imagine.

In Galatians 6:7–9, Paul writes,

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: 

for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 

For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; 

but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. 

And let us not be weary in well doing: 

for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Don’t get tired of serving God and letting Him lead you. Don’t be afraid of losing your dreams when you give them to God; He will only make them bigger and better and show you more clearly where you need to be!

I hope this encourages you! I’m still a work in progress, but I know God is with me—and He’s with you as well. So keep seeking Him!

God bless,

Janet

PS: Here is a link to a version of “I Surrender All” that I love, so you can listen to it yourself!