Peace through surrender
Sunday Rewind is a 5-day Devotional based on the weekly sermon at Resonate Community Church
September 24th Sermon, Day 3
We often approach peace as something we need to achieve through our own efforts. If we just try harder, worry less, or figure everything out, then we'll finally experience peace. But this approach usually leaves us exhausted and still anxious.
The truth is, we can't manufacture true peace. It's not something we create—it's something we receive. And receiving requires surrender.
Paul and Silas demonstrated this beautifully. After being beaten and thrown into prison—circumstances that would justify anxiety and despair—they were singing hymns at midnight. Their peace wasn't from denying their pain or pretending everything was fine. Their peace came from surrendering to God's purposes and presence even in their suffering.
Surrender doesn't mean giving up. It means giving over—releasing our tight grip on how we think things should be and opening our hands to receive what God wants to give. It means acknowledging that we don't have all the answers and can't control all the outcomes, but we know the One who can.
Today, what do you need to surrender? What are you holding onto so tightly that it's preventing you from receiving God's peace?
Bible Verse
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:6-7
Reflection Question
What specific worry or concern do you need to surrender to God today in order to experience His peace?
Quote
Peace comes not from striving, but from surrender.
Prayer
Father, I confess that I've been trying to create my own peace by controlling my circumstances. Today, I surrender my need for control and open my hands to receive Your peace. Guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Help me to trust You with what I cannot understand or control. Amen.
