When Surrender Stops Striving
Why the Opposite of Striving Is Play
Trying to Surrender
It’s amazing how often we try to surrender.
We try to let go correctly.
Try to trust harder.
Try to yield more completely.
And even that becomes effort.
But Paul says something that quietly changes everything:
“It is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good pleasure.” Philippians 2:13
Even the desire to surrender begins with Him.
You are not initiating grace.
You are participating in it.
Striving in Softer Language
We assume the opposite of striving is surrender.
But many people strive to surrender.
They tighten inward.
They monitor themselves.
They try to feel peaceful enough.
That’s still control — just in spiritual clothing.
The opposite of striving is not more effort in a gentler tone.
The opposite of striving is play.
Play Is Secure Joy
Play only happens where there is safety.
Jesus said, “Unless you become like little children…” Matthew 18:3
Children don’t play to prove themselves. They play because they trust the room is safe.
They try.
They wobble.
They laugh.
They try again.
That’s not immaturity. That’s security.
Play is trust embodied. It is obedience without anxiety. It is movement without panic about outcomes.
The Trinity is not anxious. Father, Son, and Spirit have eternally delighted in one another. No strain. No performance review. No fear of expulsion.
You were brought into that life.
Maturity in Christ is not rigid intensity. It is steady joy.
When Work Becomes Delight
When you realize God is already at work in you, surrender stops being a task and becomes a rhythm.
You begin to live lightly — not carelessly, but confidently.
Confident that the One who began the work will complete it.
Confident that even your wobble is held.
Striving exhausts.
Play trusts.
And trust makes room for joy.
Reflection
Where have I confused seriousness with maturity?
What would obedience look like if I trusted the safety of Abba’s presence?
How might joy reshape the way I follow Christ?
Prayer