The Nature and Excellence of the State of Abandonment
In the spiritual journey, one often encounters moments where the soul feels actively engaged in seeking God, arranging prayers, readings, and forming resolutions. But there comes a time when, instead of living actively in God, we are invited to allow God to live in us. It is a subtle yet profound shift, a state of abandonment where our efforts cease, and God begins to work within us.
I remember when I first encountered this teaching by Jean-Pierre de Caussade. The concept of complete abandonment to God’s will seemed both freeing and terrifying. Could I really let go of my carefully planned spiritual practices? Could I trust that God would provide the direction and support I needed without my usual structure? The idea that God would live in me, and I had only to surrender, seemed mysterious and distant at first. Yet, as I continued on this journey of surrender, I found a deeper peace than I could have ever imagined.
Abandonment: A Childlike Trust
De Caussade speaks of abandonment to divine providence as resembling a child led by the hand. The child has no set path, no specific plans, but instead trusts completely in the parent to guide and protect. In this state, the soul relinquishes control and allows God to act as He pleases, trusting that everything He brings will be for its sanctification.
In my life as a homeschooling mother, this analogy resonated deeply. So much of my day is filled with structure—lessons, schedules, and plans. Yet there are countless moments when all my planning goes awry—unexpected interruptions, sickness, or the simple chaos that comes with raising children. These are the moments where I am reminded to let go and trust. Just as I guide my children through their lessons, I must allow God to guide me. The challenges that arise aren’t obstacles to be removed, but opportunities to surrender.
Living in Darkness and Trusting in Light
De Caussade also describes this abandonment as a state where the soul often feels as though it is living in darkness, forgetfulness, and nothingness. There are no guarantees, no clear roadmaps for the future. Instead, the soul must wait with eyes fixed on Heaven, trusting in God’s providence without anxiety.
I have experienced this darkness in my own spiritual journey—times when prayer felt dry, when I could not see how God was working, and when it seemed like every plan I made fell apart. Yet, it was in these moments of uncertainty that I found my faith deepened. I learned to let go of my need for control, trusting that even though I couldn’t see His hand, God was actively at work, shaping my soul in ways I couldn’t understand. Just as a sculptor molds the stone, sometimes through harsh blows, God was molding me through these trials, bringing me closer to His likeness.
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A Hidden and Mysterious Work
De Caussade points out that those who live in this state of abandonment may appear useless to the world—like broken pottery cast aside. Yet, God is doing a hidden and mysterious work within them, spreading grace in ways that often remain unknown. They may not be performing great works or drawing attention, but their surrender allows God’s grace to flow through them, touching the lives of others in unexpected ways.
This resonates with me as a mother and teacher. So often, the work of raising children, teaching them, and tending to a home feels hidden and unnoticed. The world may not see the small sacrifices I make each day, but in God’s eyes, these hidden acts are filled with grace. It’s a reminder that even in the mundane, God is working in and through me. My surrender to His will in each moment, even when unnoticed by others, allows His grace to flow into my family and beyond.
Abandoning Effort for True Rest
Perhaps the most challenging aspect of abandonment is letting go of the desire to achieve or prove oneself. De Caussade speaks of not attempting anything by one’s own impulse, but simply remaining open and surrendered to God’s will. This does not mean passivity or indifference, but rather a willingness to let go of our own agendas and allow God to act.
For someone like me, who is used to planning and organizing every aspect of life, this feels counterintuitive. Yet, when I have truly surrendered—letting go of my need for control—I have experienced the deepest sense of rest. It’s the rest that comes from knowing that I don’t have to strive for perfection or orchestrate every detail. God is in control. He knows what I need, even better than I do.
The Call to Surrender Today
This message of abandonment is one that I carry with me each day, especially when life feels overwhelming. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of life, thinking that everything depends on our own efforts. But de Caussade’s words remind me that true peace and sanctification come from surrendering to God’s providence, trusting that He is guiding every moment.
If you’re feeling weary or overwhelmed today, I encourage you to take a moment to surrender. Let go of the need to control or understand every step of your journey. Trust that God is at work in the unseen, in the moments that feel mundane or difficult. He is shaping you, using every moment for your sanctification. As we learn to abandon ourselves to His will, we will find a peace that the world cannot give, and our lives will become a testament to His grace at work within us.
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