Submission: A Free Gift to God

 

In our journey of faith, the concept of abandonment—a complete surrender to God’s will—can be daunting yet profoundly liberating. Jean-Pierre de Caussade's insights into the nature of this surrender invite us to understand that submission to God is not just an obligation; it's a free gift we offer in love, a beautiful act of trust.

The Essence of Abandonment

When we surrender our lives to God, we engage in a transformative process where our very being aligns with His divine will. It’s a dynamic relationship, one where our hearts open to His good pleasure, extending to every aspect of our lives. As de Caussade puts it, abandonment practiced interiorly embodies every possible variety of operation.

What does this look like in real life? Personally, I recall a time when my family faced significant challenges. The uncertainty of our circumstances weighed heavily on my heart, often leaving me feeling anxious and powerless. It was during this period that I realized I had to let go of my desire to control every outcome. Instead of wrestling with my worries, I decided to embrace the act of surrender. I consciously turned my focus toward what I could offer God: my willingness to accept whatever came my way, trusting that He knew better than I did.

Finding Freedom in Submission

This journey of submission isn’t about giving up; it’s about freeing ourselves from the burdens of anxiety and worry. In letting go of my preconceived notions of how things should unfold, I began to experience a remarkable sense of peace. I learned that submission is less about specific actions and more about a state of being. It’s about cultivating a heart that is ready to receive God’s grace, regardless of how it manifests.

In this process, I discovered that God doesn’t require perfection from us; He desires a willing heart. We are called to fulfill our daily duties and follow the grace He provides, all while maintaining an attitude of openness. This realization came to me one evening as I prayed, asking for guidance in my struggles. I felt a gentle nudge, a reminder that my job was simply to trust, to act with love, and to submit to His will, even when it seemed unclear.

The Blessing of Letting Go

As I continued to practice this abandonment, I noticed profound changes within me. My anxieties lessened, replaced by an unwavering faith that, although life would not always be easy, I was never alone. Every moment became an opportunity to trust in God's goodness, regardless of the outcome. This is a testament to the idea that the true merit of our actions lies not in their visibility but in our sincere desire to align with God’s will.

Today, my greatest miracle is the ongoing transformation of my heart—a heart learning to find joy in submission. There’s a profound freedom that comes from acknowledging that I no longer need to orchestrate every detail of my life. I have relinquished my need for control, embracing the belief that God is in charge. It’s a humbling experience, but also incredibly liberating.

Conclusion: Embracing Divine Surrender

Abandonment to God is a beautiful and powerful gift that requires our trust and our love. By letting go of the need to control every moment, we open ourselves to a deeper relationship with Him. Each day, as I strive to live in this spirit of submission, I find myself more at peace, more connected to the divine, and more aware of the abundant blessings that surround me.

Let us remember that in the quietness of our surrender, we are drawn into the very heart of God. In our willingness to submit, we discover the profound truth that all we have, all we are, and all we hope to be is a gift from Him. May we continue to embrace this free gift of submission, trusting in His divine providence, and finding joy in the journey of faith.