Every new level, a new surrender

In the Christian life, we all reach a point where it feels like we've hit the ceiling of our current level. At that moment, we have a choice: stay where we are, or step into the next level God has for us.

Every new level requires sacrifice. Sometimes it's a sacrifice of comfort, which is hard enough for many. But more often, it's a sacrifice of self — laying down our own will, pride, and preferences before God.

Jesus showed us the way when He prayed in Gethsemane: "Not My will but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42). That prayer is the doorway into the next level.

The difference between staying stuck and stepping forward is found in which words we live by: "Not Your will but mine be done" (and we remain where we are), or "Not my will but Yours" (and we step into God's greater purpose).

Every new level in God requires a new surrender.

Lord, help me not to cling to comfort or my own way. Teach me to lay down my will, so I can walk fully in Yours.