Getting over the hump is a pretty common metaphor. It is used to describe anything from passing the midpoint on a project to reaching the top of an actual hill before descending to the other side. For some, these humps appear as challenges to be conquered. For others, they are barriers not to be approached.
As Christians, I feel like there is a hump that many of us have trouble getting over. That hump stands between us and complete surrender to God.
When we finally realize that we were created to serve God, and we have decided to give our lives over to Him, we have no choice but to offer our complete surrender. We confess our sins, we pray for forgiveness, and we acknowledge Him as Lord of our lives. We pray, “God, help me to be who You want me to be!”
That is all very powerful, life-changing stuff. However, it is what we are not saying that can be even more powerful…and detrimental to our spiritual well-being. I may be alone on this, but I am always very careful when I pray for God’s leading and direction. I choose my words wisely when asking God to change me. I try to make sure that I leave room for what I want for my life. While I invite God to sit in the driver’s seat, I always make sure to hold on to a spare key.
By adding just three small words to the brief prayer above, I could completely change the meaning of my relationship with God and I could get over the hump in my effort to surrender my life. If I am who I claim to be, my prayer should be, “God, help me to be who You want me to be…and nothing else.” Those three words change everything.
Surrender is not something that can be done half way. If we choose to give our lives to God, we must give ourselves completely. Fortunately, God loves us and sometimes blesses us with things that bring us joy and comfort. But if we are living for Him, those are not the things that we should seek or make a priority.
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. (Matthew 6:33 NLT)
That is the only way we can get over the hump.