One of the most amazing parts of the Easter story, for me, is the fact that at any point on the road to the cross, Jesus could have said “no.” Just one word, and the pain, abuse, shame, and death would not have occurred. But, he did not stop the ending from happening. He surrendered His will to the Father.

The night of His betrayal, Jesus said, “Father, if You are willing, take this cup from me; yet not My will but Yours be done.” Luke 22:42 NIV

He could have prevented the flogging with one word, but He didn’t speak it.

He could have stopped the crown of thorns from piercing His head, but He allowed it.

He could have kept the first nail from being driven into his hand, but He bore it.

He allowed it all, including His own death. He surrendered His will to the Father’s will.

And God rewarded His surrender.

What was His reward? He is seated at the right hand of the Father. He reigns over this world. He is the King. He is the Judge. But most of all, He was given the gift of His people—us. Through His death, He took our sins upon Himself and to the grave, opening the doors of heaven to us. We are His, and He is ours. Our Lord. Our King. Our Savior.

God rewarded His surrender of His will to the Father’s.

This was the epitome of surrender. But, God shows that His nature is to reward those who submit their wills to His.

Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son at God’s request. He put God’s desire above His own. And God rewarded this surrender of his will through providing a substitute for the sacrifice, and then providing Abraham with innumerable descendants.

Joseph was kidnapped and sold into slavery. He could have become embittered, angry, and vindictive. Instead, he sought to do God’s will even in these terrible circumstances. And, God rewarded Him with status, wealth, and an opportunity to save his people.

Ruth lost her husband and at an early age. She could have been despondent, bitter, withdrawn. Instead, she elected to care for her mother-in-law and to serve her needs. God rewarded Ruth’s dedication to doing what was right by providing her with a new husband and family.

Hannah was one of two wives married to Elkanah. She was barren and was taunted for it. But, Hannah was determined to surrender and submit her situation to the Lord. She persisted in prayer. And God rewarded her with a son, who became Israel’s greatest judge.

When we surrender to His will, God provides abundantly.

It may not be what we imagined. It will be better. And it will be abundant.

When you are in times of surrender before the times of bounty arrives, how can you cope? The best example is to follow Christ.

First, surrender your will to God.

Second, remember God’s faithfulness, as demonstrated over and over in Scripture.

Third, keep your eyes on Him, not on your own pain.

Fourth, stay in prayer. Prayer is the most perfect way to stay connected to God.

Christ won the victory, Heaven is ours!

Surrender today, and stay faithful.