Hands Up, Palms Down

Hands Up, Palms Down

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Psalm 46:10-11 (NKJV)

Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

In a world that often glorifies busyness, achievement, and self-sufficiency, it’s easy to approach life with our hands tightly gripping the reins of control. We set goals, make plans, and tirelessly chase after our dreams. It’s a natural human inclination to strive for success and try to mold our lives according to our desires. But sometimes, in the midst of this hectic journey, God gently calls us to a different posture: hands up, palms down.

While it might be tempting to interpret this scripture as a simple break from life’s turbulence, it carries a profound message. It’s an invitation to shift our perspective from ceaseless action to humble surrender, from asserting control to entrusting control to the One who is ultimately in charge.

This verse challenges us to stop trying to manipulate outcomes that are well within God’s purview. It beckons us to realize that life isn’t just about reaching the end goal. It’s about the journey, the lessons learned, the relationships formed, and the blessings encountered when we place our trust in Him. 

So, why is this posture of surrender so vital? It’s because it prevents us from reducing our worth to the sum of our accomplishments or the status of our spiritual gifts. Our significance isn’t solely rooted in who we are but in Whose we are. We matter because we are children of the Most High, valued beyond measure.

Whether you’re in the midst of a fierce battle, contemplating flight, or feeling small and insignificant in the vast expanse of existence, remember this: your worth is inherent in your divine inheritance. It’s not about what you can control but about trusting in the One who controls all things.

Embrace the tough times and setbacks, for they often hold the gateway to hope and growth. Surrender isn’t synonymous with defeat; it’s a powerful act of faith. It involves setting aside our well-constructed plans, lifting our open palms to the heavens, and allowing God to lead us on the path He has lovingly prepared.

In this surrender, we find peace, purpose, and a love that transcends our understanding. As we let go of our plans, we discover God’s plan, which is always far greater than anything we could have envisioned for ourselves. So, choose to release control, raise your hands in surrender, and let God guide you. In this act of faith, you’ll encounter the true meaning of “Be still, and know that He is God.”

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How do you typically approach life’s challenges and uncertainties – with tightly clenched hands, trying to control every outcome, or with open palms in surrender, trusting God’s guidance and plan?

In what areas of your life do you find it most challenging to surrender control and place your trust in God’s plan? What steps can you take to embrace the practice of surrender more fully in those areas?