A Song of Surrender

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV).

Americans acknowledge that we trust in God.  

“In God We Trust” is printed and embossed on our currency. But do we? What evidence is there to convince us that “In God We Trust” is more than a logo or a catchphrase? 

A logo serves as a visual representation of a brand or organization that encapsulates its identity, values, and purpose. It aims to create a memorable impression, differentiate the brand from competitors, evoke emotions, and encourage others to connect with a product or organization.  

Suppose I sincerely believe I am created in God’s image (Genesis 1:26). In that case, I must ask: How accurately does my life reflect God’s image—the Lord’s identity, values, and purpose? If I’m honest, I must acknowledge that my image is often tainted, distorting God’s pure reflection. 

But that leads to another question. Why does my image misrepresent the beauty and trustworthiness of Yahweh? Is it not because I struggle with trusting God? 

I want to trust Him. There have been times when I depended on God’s intervention (usually when I had reached a point of despair). Times when my circumstances defied logic and my wisdom was in short supply. Moments when knowledge could not penetrate my despondency. Lonely times and painful experiences that made no sense and for which I had no solutions. 

More than once, the wisdom of Proverbs has reminded me that my wisdom and understanding are not dependable. My human insight is never sufficient. The prophet Isaiah reminds us that God’s ways are not our ways. Yahweh’s thoughts are far above our thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). 

I may question: “God, where are you? Why are you allowing ‘this’ (whatever my experience is for which I have no answers) to continue?” And more often than I like, God remains painfully silent. But my unanswered questions answered with God’s silence do not invalidate God’s trustworthiness. God’s silence invites me to continue to trust, while my questions reveal my lack of understanding and powerlessness, which is a reminder for me to search His word for answers. Sid S. Buzzell reminds us: 

“All the wisdom a person may acquire can never replace the need for full trust in God’s superior ways.”^⁠1

The wisdom of Proverbs teaches us to “trust in the Lord with all our heart” [emphasis mine]. The word “heart” in Hebrew goes beyond referencing one’s emotions. It also refers to a person’s intellect—understanding, discernment, reflection, or will (see Proverbs 5:12; 10:8; 15:14, 28). 

To “trust in the Lord” transcends a mere acknowledgment (a polite nod of recognition). It is an unwavering confidence discovered in an intimate relationship with God—even when I don’t understand, and there is no explanation.

I admit I continue to deceive myself thinking I can control my situation. You would think I would have learned by now that “control” is an illusion. But that false impression is an excellent tool of my adversary, used to keep me from acknowledging God. 

“Try harder. Don’t quit. You can do it, you will find a way” is a never-ending loop, sung by my assailant to convince me to stay in a fight that is not mine to fight. The wisdom of Proverbs provides a better song to sing: 

“Trust me with all your heart; don’t rely on your understanding; acknowledge God; though you don’t understand, God does! Though you can’t find your way, God will lead you!” 

What concerns you today? What decisions do you face? Are you exhausted trying to comprehend that which is incomprehensible? 

Perhaps we would all do well by singing a new song of surrender that encourages us to trust, acknowledge, and rely on God, Who is faithful to lead us when we’re lost and Who understands what we don’t!

¹ Sid S. Buzzell, “Proverbs,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 911.

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