Give It to God: The Journey Of Complete Surrender & Transformation
The Heart of Surrender
Last week, we began a new sermon series called Give It to God. As I shared with our congregation, this series is deeply personal, not just for each of you but for me as well. The journey of surrender isn’t something we conquer once and for all; it’s an ongoing process that God calls us to each day.
The heart of this series is about exchanging our old life for the new, abundant life that Jesus promises. But the exchange only happens when we willingly lay down every part of ourselves before the Lord. It’s not always easy, and often, it’s downright painful. But it’s necessary.
Surrendering Our Will
In our first message, we focused on Surrendering Our Will. As I reflected on Matthew 16:24—"If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me"—I felt the weight of what Jesus is asking.
To deny ourselves means letting go of control, our plans, our desires, and everything in us that resists God’s will. It’s not about giving up who we are but about allowing Him to transform us into who He’s called us to be. Taking up our cross means being willing to embrace humility, sacrifice, and even suffering for the sake of the Gospel. And following Him? That’s a daily, intentional decision to walk where He leads, trusting that His plans are better than anything we could ever imagine.
The Challenge of Letting Go
Let me ask you this: Are you ready to surrender? I know firsthand how challenging this can be. There are parts of us that fight to stay in control, that cling to old ways because it feels safe. But God isn’t calling us to safety—He’s calling us to transformation.
This week, I challenged us all, myself included, to begin by surrendering our will. It starts with simply saying, “Lord, I give this to You.” Maybe for you, that’s a specific habit, an attitude, a plan, or even a relationship. Whatever it is, God wants it. Not to leave you empty, but to fill you with His joy, peace, and purpose.
The Journey Ahead
Over the next few weeks, we’ll explore other areas of life that require surrender as part of our discipleship. My prayer is that we’ll walk this journey together, allowing God to examine, refine, and transform us so that we reflect His heart more fully.
A Call to Action
Are you ready to take this step with me? Let’s not hold back. Let’s trust that God’s plans for us are good, that He’s working even in the hard places, and that He’s calling us to a life of abundance and fruitfulness in Him.
This week, take time to pray, reflect, and give God whatever you’ve been holding on to. Let’s embrace this journey of surrender together, trusting that He will do far more in our lives than we could ever ask or imagine. I’m excited to see what God has in store for all of us as we take this step of faith.
Let’s do this—together.
Blessings,
Pastor Niel
