What Submission to God Really Means — Examples, Benefits, and How It Changes Your Life
- Heather Edmund
- Mar 17, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 14
Submission to God takes different forms for different people. It isn’t about losing control—it’s about gaining everything He has prepared for us.
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Examples of Submission in Scripture
For Jesus, submission meant enduring the cross (Matthew 26-27). For Paul, it was facing persecution and imprisonment (2 Corinthians and Philippians). Abraham obeyed by leaving his homeland (Genesis 12:1-9), while Moses submitted by leading Israel out of slavery (Exodus 4:18-21).
Throughout Scripture, countless others—Jacob, Samuel, Isaiah, Ananias, Joshua—embraced submission to fulfill God’s purpose.
Your submission may require stepping into the uncomfortable or the unknown, but whatever it is, follow Christ’s example—stay unwavering and committed (Matthew 26:39).
Our feelings can be a barrier, but beyond them lies the joy and fulfillment God has prepared for us when we submit (Hebrews 12:2).
What Submission Looks Like Today
Ultimately, submitting to God isn’t about losing control—it’s about unlocking purpose, peace, and divine favor.
Powerful: Unlocking Strength Through Submission
Surrendering to God connects us to His limitless strength (2 Corinthians 12:9). It allows Him to work through us, breaking barriers, overcoming obstacles, and leading us to victory (James 4:7).
Personal Story Example:
Early in the year, I faced a situation where I could have reacted in frustration, but I chose to pause, speak to God, and submit the decision to God. Surprisingly, the outcome not only resolved peacefully but it protected the relationship.
Impactful: Transforming Lives Around You
Submission transforms not only your life but the lives of those around you. From Abraham to Paul, obedience led to profound influence and transformation (Romans 12:1-2; Acts 2:41).
An Example:
You noticed a friend going through a difficult time and felt moved to respond with care instead of criticism. Following that prompting created a moment of connection that deeply touched both of you.
Fulfilling: Finding Joy and Peace in Purpose
True fulfillment comes from living out God’s purpose. Submission may require sacrifice, but it leads to joy, peace, and eternal reward (Matthew 16:24-25, Hebrews 12:2). It frees us from anxiety, as we trust His plans, knowing they are for our good (Jeremiah 29:11).
How Submission Can Change Your Life
Submission to God isn’t just spiritual—it’s transformational in everyday life. Here’s what happens when you practice it:
Clearer Decisions – When you stop relying on your own impulses, your choices become wiser and more aligned with God’s guidance.
Peace and Joy – Letting go of control reduces stress and creates deep, lasting contentment.
Stronger Relationships – Obedience softens pride, fosters humility, and strengthens bonds with family, friends, and community.
Greater Influence and Purpose – Walking in submission positions you to make a positive impact on others while fulfilling God’s plan for your life.
Practical Examples Today
Choosing patience instead of arguing in a tense conversation.
Listening to guidance from a spiritual mentor or church leader.
Prioritizing generosity and service even when it’s inconvenient.
Following God’s promptings to make life changes, like career shifts or relational reconciliation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is submission the same as passivity? No. Submission is an active choice — you are yielding to God’s guidance, not ignoring your responsibilities.
Q: Does submission mean I lose control? Not at all. True submission actually gives you control over your life in alignment with God’s will.
Q: How do I start submitting to God today? Start with small, intentional actions: prayer, listening to His guidance, making ethical choices, and trusting His plan even when it’s uncomfortable.
Looking for more insight on living intentionally and walking in God’s guidance? These posts explore practical ways submission, obedience, and spiritual discipline can transform your life:
It’s deeper than food: Exposing ungodly appetites — Discover how everyday desires can influence your choices and learn how to align your habits with God’s plan.
Disobedience Isn’t Worth It — It’s Costly — Explore the real-life consequences of ignoring God’s guidance and why choosing obedience leads to peace and fulfillment.
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A call for salvation
When you accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, His spirit will become one with yours. This is one of the greatest blessings of salvation. You don't have to go through someone else to get to God, as you and Him are now one.
All you must do is receive salvation, simply choosing to repent of your sins and welcome Jesus into your life by confessing Him as Lord. In Romans 10:9 Paul said, "If you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."
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Jesus, I confess that you are Lord, and I believe in my heart that you died and were risen for my sins. I ask for forgiveness of my sins, and I accept you as my personal Lord and Savior—in Jesus' name, Amen.
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