I set out to write a pithy little post titled “Don’t Strive or Struggle … Surrender,” but as I dug in a little bit, I discovered that striving and struggling are not necessarily bad things. Let me explain…
The dictionary defines striving and struggling as working hard with energy and stamina against opposition. Neither of these things is wrong if we aim them in the right direction. When we pursue something that grows us, encourages others, and glorifies God, we will face opposition—and we will strive and struggle.
So how can we strive and struggle rightly?
Chasing a God-sized dream in our own strength is like biking up a steep hill in the highest gear – it’s exhausting and unsustainable! But what if we combine our determined effort to accomplish something good with surrender? We’d still have to peddle, but with the Holy Spirit’s power propelling us forward, at least we’d make progress. The hard work would pay off in the end.
If you’re pursuing an audacious goal or a God-sized dream and feel stuck, is it because you are striving and struggling in your own power?
Are you trying to employ talents you haven’t been given?
Are you envying the gifts of others instead of stepping into your own?
Are you pushing through doors God hasn’t opened or fearfully avoiding the ones He has?
If you feel stuck, it’s time to surrender.
Ask God to show you if this is His purpose for you. Prayerfully consider why you set this goal. Honestly evaluate what it requires and whether you have the God-given gifts, talents, and opportunities to accomplish it. Is your progress stunted because you’re trying to fit a square peg into a round hole, or is there a lack of dedication and determination on your part?
If you believe God will be glorified through both the process and the outcome, and you’ve surrendered to the Holy Spirit’s power and guidance, don’t be afraid to strive and struggle a little along the way. Gear up and get going. Acknowledge that God is in charge of the journey and the destination – and enjoy the ride!
I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. – Philippians 3:15 NLT
