I’m reading through If God Disappears by David Sanford, and I ran across these great thoughts on submission. Since I’ve had small group formation on my heart so much lately, I’m sure I’m reading it through that lens.
“Satan always repackages that which is intrinsically good—whether it’s beauty, sexuality, holiness, justice, or anything else God has created—and makes it repulsive.
It’s probably an exaggeration to say most people hate submission. The fact is, however, the word isn’t even in the vocabulary of the average person.
You’re free to disagree, but I believe there’s nothing the devil would like more than for us to have no idea what it means to submit—in humility—both to God and to a handful of preselected, highly trusted individuals who know and love us.
True submission is built on humility and trust. None of the three are natural for us. Instead, we’re mostly good at trying to be self-reliant and are often reckless as a result.” ~pp. 17-18
“Over time, I grew to understand that submission isn’t primarily about power. It’s not even primarily about recognizing and following the leadership of those over me, although that’s very important. Instead, submission involves actively listening to and heeding hte counsel of others. Ultimately, submission based on true humility and authentic, grace-filled relationships of trust is essential among coworkers, friends, and family members.” ~pp.19-20
“Ephesians 5:21 says, ‘Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.’”
“First, submission isn’t possible unless someone knowingly, deliberately, and decisively rejects the American ideal of rugged individualism. Unless I reject that mentality, I’ll know nothing of submitting to other’s strengths—and I’ll pay a dear price.
Second, while Scripture commands us to submit to one another, it doesn’t give us the authority to command others to submit to us. That would be as ludicrous as commanding someone to love or respect us. Submission must be earned. It builds upon the positive aspects of true humility and grace-filled trust. Only when those two things are in place is healthy, Christlike submission even possible.
Third, submission doesn’t mean taking orders. Instead, it means being willing to yield or defer to the strengths of others. This is true not only in marriage but in every sphere of life, including a relationship with God.
Submitting to God and others isn’t easy in the best of times let alone the worst.” ~pp.24-25
What are your thoughts on submission? How have you found submission to others of benefit to you? Do you agree with these points? What kind of struggles have you had with submission?
[For more information about David Sanborn and his book, If God Disappears, visit IfGodDisappears.com]
