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Submission

by Scott Wylie

Infographic on the biblical quality of submission.

Submission, a fundamental biblical concept, signifies a voluntary act of surrendering one's will, desires, and authority to a higher power or authority, often in the context of God's authority or human relationships. Rooted in the Bible, submission is a virtue that reflects humility, obedience, and trust in God's divine plan. In this article, we will explore the biblical concept of submission, its significance, and provide practical guidance for how Christians can experience and practice submission in their lives.

Understanding Submission:

Submission involves willingly yielding one's rights, preferences, and desires to another, with an attitude of humility and respect. It is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of trust and obedience. In the Christian context, submission primarily involves submitting to God's will and authority, as well as humbly relating to others in various roles and relationships.

Biblical Verses on Submission:

  1. James 4:7 (ESV): "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Submitting to God involves resisting evil influences.

  2. Ephesians 5:22 (ESV): "Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord." This verse highlights submission in the context of marriage.

  3. Hebrews 13:17 (ESV): "Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account." Submission to spiritual leaders is emphasized here.

Tips for Practicing Submission:

  1. Submit to God: Start by surrendering your life to God's authority and seeking His will in all aspects.

  2. Humble Yourself: Cultivate a humble heart, recognizing that God's wisdom far surpasses your own.

  3. Pray for Guidance: Seek God's guidance in decisions and actions, submitting your plans to His will.

  4. Obey God's Word: Align your life with the teachings and commands found in the Bible.

  5. Submit to Authority: Respect and submit to authority figures, such as parents, employers, and church leaders, as long as their requests do not conflict with God's Word.

  6. Practice Patience: Submitting often requires patience, especially in difficult circumstances or relationships.

  7. Seek Accountability: Surround yourself with accountable friends who can encourage and help you walk in submission.

  8. Forgive and Reconcile: In conflicts, choose forgiveness and seek reconciliation whenever possible.

  9. Serve Others: Demonstrate submission through acts of service and putting others' needs before your own.

  10. Practice Self-Control: Control your impulses and desires, choosing obedience and submission over self-indulgence.

10 Prayers for Growing in Submission:

  1. Pray for Submission to God: 
    "Lord, help me to submit my will to Yours and trust in Your divine plan." - Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)

  2. Pray for Humility: 
    "Grant me a humble heart, Lord, that I may willingly yield to Your authority." - James 4:10 (ESV)

  3. Pray for Obedience: 
    "Help me obey Your Word, Lord, and submit to Your commands." - Psalm 119:105 (ESV)

  4. Pray for Submission in Relationships: 
    "Guide me in submitting to others in love and respect, Lord." - Ephesians 5:21 (ESV)

  5. Pray for Patience: 
    "Grant me patience, Lord, to endure difficulties and practice submission." - Romans 12:12 (ESV)

  6. Pray for Forgiveness: 
    "Teach me to forgive, Lord, as an act of submission to Your love and grace." - Colossians 3:13 (ESV)

  7. Pray for Wisdom: 
    "Grant me wisdom to discern when and how to submit, Lord." - James 3:17 (ESV)

  8. Pray for Servitude: 
    "May I serve others with a submissive heart, following Christ's example." - Mark 10:45 (ESV)

  9. Pray for Accountability: 
    "Surround me with accountable friends, Lord, who help me grow in submission." - Proverbs 27:17 (ESV)

  10. Pray for Trust: 
    "Build my trust in You, Lord, as I submit my life to Your care." - Psalm 37:5 (ESV)

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