We had a great class last night on the topic of submission. So many wonderful comments were shared. A great concept shared in the class was related to the idea that the discipline of submission carries with it an associated freedom.
When we submit, we relinquish the burden of always being right. Richard Foster expands on this concept to demonstrate how as humans we are so often trapped by the need to be right. Whether it is personal relationships, church relationships, professional relationships. If we are striving to be right about everything, we are always struggling against something or someone. Giving up that need to be right, frees us to serve.
Often it seems that we struggle to be right in order to protect our image or reputation. But God calls us to submission, and He promises to provide for all our needs. Can we trust Him to provide the protection we need in this area also, and stop striving to do this by our own hand?
“But most often, the trials we face are of the garden variety rather than heroic. Your superior at the office makes a mistake that places you in an awkward position. Your son puts a nice round hole in the neighbor’s window with his new BB gun. You are embroiled in ongoing tension with someone who used to be your best friend.
But through the operations of grace, even these work endurance in us, and we learn something of the cosmic patience of God. We come to see God’s timing and God’s ways as altogether good. We become what George Fox called “established” men and women.”
– Richard Foster
Submission is an art and a disciple. However, the respect for submission can be abused by leadership — as the FLDS leader Warren Jeffs demonstrated. I have posted some information about the raid on the FLDS compound in west Texas on my blog — would welcome your comments about it. Blessings to you, brother.
Latayne C Scott
http://www.latayne.com
I agree that those God has called to leadership have a special task and associated responsibility. Jesus’ teachings at the sermon on the mount challenge us to see the world through a set of priciples in direct opposition to those of this world. This has application to leadership. The Godly leader will actually find his or her role bringing more opportunities to become the servant. The Godly leader will find his or her role in empowering others rather than building personal power and prestige.
Submission is always a concept for me to follow, never expecting others to submit to me.
Thanks for your thought on FLDS. The events of the last days surrounding that group have brought about a clear image of the dangers of the abuse that is possible when God’s principles are used in Satan’s schemes.