Daily Devotional

Finding Strength in God, Not Ourselves

We live in a world that tells us to focus on our own desires, emotions, and opinions. In contrast, God calls us to something radically different—surrender. The Proverbs 31 woman exemplifies this surrender. She isn’t defined by manipulation, self-promotion, or control. Instead, she finds strength in the Lord (Proverbs 31:10-31), and that strength shapes her thoughts, words, and actions.

How we see ourselves influences how we respond to life’s challenges, correction from God, and even attacks from the enemy. Do we react defensively, making it about us, or do we surrender our will to align with God’s truth?

Taking Every Thought Captive

Our thoughts drive our actions. If left unchecked, they can lead us down a dangerous path of self-centeredness. This includes pride and manipulation. Scripture provides a clear directive. “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God. We take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” — 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NIV)

This means actively filtering our thoughts through God’s Word. Are we allowing emotions and opinions to control us? Or are we submitting to God’s wisdom?

When we surrender, we no longer try to manipulate situations or people to fit our personal agenda. Instead, we walk in love, honesty, and trust, knowing that God’s plans are far greater than our own. We recognize that, “It’s not all about me”.

God’s Plan Over Our Preferences

It’s tempting to hold tightly to what we want—whether it’s relationships, career paths, or outcomes we think are best. But true faith requires releasing control. God’s way isn’t about everything going how we want—it’s about trusting His will, His timing, and His plan.

As believers, our role is to encourage, uplift, and pray for others, not force them into compliance with our desires. Some will reject the truth. Some might mock us or even betray us. We are called to love them anyway, just as Christ loves us.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10

Being still doesn’t mean inactivity—it means trust. It means releasing our grip on situations and allowing God to work in His perfect way.

Reflect & Apply:

• Are you allowing emotions and opinions to control your reactions?
• Do you try to manipulate situations, or do you trust God’s plan?
• How can you take your thoughts captive today and surrender them to Christ?

Cross-Reference Scriptures for Deeper Study:

📖 Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trusting in the Lord’s plan, not our

Blessings to YOU,

Cassandra Lee

There’s JOY in the journey – nourishing body & soul…

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