Topical Encyclopedia Resignation, in the context of Christian theology, refers to the act of surrendering one's own will and desires to the will of God. It is a profound expression of faith and trust in God's sovereignty and goodness. This concept is deeply rooted in Scripture and is often motivated by an understanding of God's love, His divine plan, and the believer's relationship with Him.Biblical Foundations The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that encourage believers to practice resignation to God's will. One of the most poignant examples is found in the life of Jesus Christ. In the Garden of Gethsemane, facing imminent crucifixion, Jesus prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. Yet not as I will, but as You will" (Matthew 26:39). This moment encapsulates the essence of resignation—submitting to God's will even in the face of personal suffering. The Apostle Paul also exemplifies this attitude. In his letter to the Philippians, he writes, "I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances" (Philippians 4:11). Paul's contentment and resignation are rooted in his trust in God's provision and love, regardless of his external circumstances. Motives Rooted in God's Love 1. Trust in God's Sovereignty: Believers are motivated to resign to God's will because they trust in His sovereign control over all things. Romans 8:28 assures us, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose" . This promise encourages believers to trust that God's plans are ultimately for their good, even when they cannot see the immediate outcome. 2. Recognition of God's Wisdom: God's wisdom is far beyond human understanding. Isaiah 55:8-9 states, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts" . This recognition motivates believers to resign to God's will, trusting that His plans are perfect and wise. 3. Experience of God's Faithfulness: Throughout Scripture, God demonstrates His faithfulness to His people. Lamentations 3:22-23 reminds us, "Because of the loving devotion of the LORD we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness" . Experiencing God's faithfulness in the past encourages believers to trust Him with their future, motivating them to resign to His will. 4. Understanding of God's Love: The ultimate motive for resignation is the understanding of God's immense love for His children. 1 John 4:9-10 declares, "This is how God’s love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. And love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as the atoning sacrifice for our sins" . The sacrificial love of God, demonstrated through Jesus Christ, compels believers to trust and submit to His will. 5. Hope in God's Promises: Believers are motivated by the hope of God's promises, which are assured through His love. Hebrews 10:23 encourages, "Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful" . This hope in God's promises provides the strength to resign to His will, knowing that His plans are for a future filled with hope and blessing. Practical Implications Resignation to God's will is not passive acceptance but an active trust in God's love and purpose. It involves prayer, seeking God's guidance, and aligning one's desires with His. As believers grow in their understanding of God's love, they find greater peace and contentment in surrendering their lives to His divine plan. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 12:6For whom the Lord loves he chastens, and whips every son whom he receives. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library More Special Advices Touching the Exercise of Affections of Divine ... Treatise on the Love of God Sermon for Christmas Day Translator's Introduction. Table of Contents. Man's Passions and God's Purpose On Religion; the Natural and Divine Life; and the Exemplification ... Certain General Rules for Mortification Sufficient for Some. ... Of Exercises of the Will: to Wit, Forced Immediate Acts... A Second Discouragement in Prayer Opposite to Perseverance, to Wit ... Resources What does the Bible say about acceptance? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about fate / destiny? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to pray, “Thy will be done”? | GotQuestions.org Resignation: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Resignation: Christ Set and Example of Resignation: General Scriptures Concerning Resignation: Motives to God's Faithfulness Resignation: Motives to God's Greatness Resignation: Motives to God's Justice Resignation: Motives to God's Love Resignation: Motives to God's Wisdom Resignation: Motives to Our own Sinfulness Resignation: Submission to the Sovereignty of God in his Purposes Resignation: Submission to the Will of God Resignation: The Prospect of Death Resignation: The Wicked are Devoid of Related Terms |
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