Devotion: The Bridge between Consistency and Surrender.

Every year, for the past several years, I have chosen a “Word of the Year”. I spend months praying and asking God for confirmation. This year I struggled to decide between two words, Consistency and Surrender. Consistency because I wanted to be more consistent in my prayer life, with reading scripture, etc. Surrender because I want to full out surrender to Jesus and what His will is for my life. I want to let go of the fear that so often holds me back from entering into his will for my life…… Then I realized there was a bridge between the two.

Devotion is the bridge between consistency and surrender because it connects the two in a way that deepens our relationship with God.

Consistency is about showing up—praying, reading Scripture, worshiping, and seeking God daily. It builds discipline and keeps us connected, even when we don’t "feel" like it. But consistency alone can become routine if the heart isn’t engaged.

“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward and that the master you are serving is Christ.” – Col. 3:23-24

Surrender is about releasing control and trusting God fully. It requires faith and a willingness to let go of our own plans, desires, and fears. But surrender without consistency can feel unstable—it may lead to emotional highs of faith without the steady endurance to keep seeking God when times get tough.

"And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him." – Romans 12:1

That’s where devotion comes in.

Devotion is what makes consistency meaningful and surrender possible. It’s the heart behind both. Devotion fuels consistency because it’s not just about habits—it’s about love for God. It also leads to surrender because when we are devoted to Him, we trust Him enough to let go.

Think of it like a bridge:

Devotion is powerful because it’s NOT about perfection, its about intention. It’s a reminder that God doesn’t require you to have it all together – He just wants your heart. This word, devotion, will guide you to live in His grace, trust His timing, and love Him fully.

Devotion is a reminder that your daily actions, thoughts, and even struggles can be acts of worship.

"So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." - 1 Corinthians 10:31

Devotion isn’t always easy. Some days, it feels effortless to draw close to God; other days, distractions, doubts, and discouragement try to pull us away. That’s why devotion isn’t just a feeling, it’s a choice. A daily surrender. A commitment to keep showing up even when we don’t feel like it.

So, let your devotion be more than words—Let it be woven into every part of your life. Worship in the way you work, love, and serve. Stay consistent in seeking Him, even when life feels messy. Surrender the things you hold too tightly and trust that He is always faithful.

Lord, let my life be an offering of devotion to you. Teach me how to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Help me to surrender what I hold too tightly and remain consistent in pursuing you daily. Make me undivided in my focus, let everything I do be for your glory. – AMEN

Questions to Ponder:

1. How can I turn my daily routine into an act of worship? What small actions can I do with a heart devoted to God?

2. Do I see my struggles as opportunities to worship? How can I shift my mindset to glorify God even in challenges?

3. What does it look like to be both consistent and surrendered in my faith? How can I balance steady discipline with complete trust?

4. Am I living for God’s approval or people’s? How does my devotion to Him influence my actions and decisions?