Urge slaves to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be pleasing, not argumentative . . .
A source of conflict in many homes is children “talking back.” This can be as simple as a roll of the eyes and a plea, or it can be a complete outburst of reasons or excuses. Talking back in this way is stereotypical behavior for many older children and teens. As adults, many of us want to believe we have matured past this phase of snarky attitudes, but we may be guilty of arguing with God in a similar way. It is unnatural for many of us to submit ourselves under another’s authority. We insist on our own way, make our own decisions, and often ignore the need for a change of direction. Your call as a follower of Christ is to do more than simply claim the title of Christian, go to church, or even grow in knowledge of God.
Your call as a Christ follower is to be changed and subject to Him in all things. We can trust that our heavenly Father knows what we need. We can trust that He is at work in all areas in our life even when surrender feels unnatural. Hebrews 12:9-11 says, “Furthermore, we had earthly fathers to discipline us, and we respected them; shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits, and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness. For the moment, all discipline seems not to be pleasant, but painful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterward it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.” Earthly parents often get it wrong and need to repent or change course. But God never does, so we can trust Him in everything.
- What is difficult for you about surrendering to God?
- When do you feel tempted to “talk back” or get argumentative with God?
- Pray and ask God to give you a humble spirit so that you may surrender to Him and trust His way.
