Surrender – When We Refuse to Surrender (365/60)
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How much is too much when it comes to following the Lord? Is there a point beyond which we quietly tell God, “I cannot go that far”?
In Mark 10, the gospel writer records the story of a wealthy young man who once eagerly came to Jesus asking, “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” (v17). He appeared sincere, moral, and spiritually interested. Yet Jesus looked at him with love and gently revealed the one thing that held his heart captive: “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor… and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” (v21). The Lord’s invitation to the man was to trust Him more than he trusted his wealth. But sadly Scripture says he “went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions” (v22).
The man walked away sad - his wealth had become his security, his identity, even his god. Though he wanted eternal life, he clung to the treasures of earth. People can appear to have everything and still miss what matters most. At the heart of surrender is not what we give up, but whom or what we trust. Jesus Himself took up the cross and surrendered fully to the Father whom He trusted completely.
Pause and Ponder
What does this encounter reveal about the things that can quietly take God’s place in our hearts?
Is there something you sense Jesus asking you to surrender, yet you find yourself holding back?
Who around you might be watching how you respond when following Christ becomes costly?
What we refuse to surrender today may quietly become the idol that keeps us from fully following Christ.
Lord, give me the grace to surrender every idol and the courage to follow Christ wholeheartedly. Amen.
Extended Reading Mark 10:17-22
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