As a youth and young adult, I acted like growing spiritually was a spontaneous process that required minimal effort on my part. Yes, I read my Bible, prayed, attended church and youth fellowship, and studied in preparation for ministry. My focus on Christian spiritual formation was almost completely intellectual. I thrived participating in Bible quizzes and competing for grades in my college classes (although looking back I don’t know how many others thought of the courses Drs. Merrill, Dean, Collins, Barton or Ehle as competitions). 

I struggled with what appeared to be the Bible’s nearly unreachable expectations. How could I possibly be perfect like God is? How was I, actually, to love others as myself? What exactly was the cross, which I was supposed to lift and carry daily? Unlike what John said in his epistle, I kept on sinning. Where had I gone wrong?

Over the years, and through numerous failed strivings, I learned that surrender is an intentional and active lifestyle. 1 Chronicles 22:13 illustrates what have learned (and still am). I am to be intentional. I have to be if I am going to carefully observe God’s will for me through his Word. I must also practice the skills of surrendering to God’s will by being strong, that is, disciplined, to face my neediness and seek God’s help. I also must press on, trusting God is good and has my best interests in mind. His will for me is GOOD! In addition, when I remember that God who commanded me to forgive others an untrackable amount (70 times seven) also provided his Spirit to lead me into his righteousness, I can continue, even when I stumble and fall.

When I entrust my “today” to God and determine not simply to learn his will for me but to also rely on his Spirit to enable, I will courageously face whatever happens.

David E. Dean, Sandwich, Ill.

Extended Scripture: 1 Chronicles 21–22