“The one principle of hell is—‘I am my own.’” — George MacDonald
MacDonald’s stark warning exposes the lie of self-reliance that permeates our culture. As a young adult, you’re bombarded with messages to “be your own boss,” to carve your own path, and to define your truth. While independence has value, MacDonald reminds us that claiming absolute ownership of your life leads to isolation and despair. True freedom comes from surrendering to God, who created you for a purpose greater than yourself.
This surrender feels counterintuitive in a world that equates strength with control. You might fear that giving your life to God means losing your identity or dreams. But God’s call to surrender is not about erasing you—it’s about fulfilling you. When you let go of the need to be your own savior, you discover a God who knows you better than you know yourself, who guides you through the uncertainties of young adulthood with wisdom and love.
Consider the moments when self-reliance has left you exhausted or lost. Contrast that with the peace of trusting God’s plan, even when it’s unclear. Surrender doesn’t mean passivity but active trust—choosing to follow Christ in your decisions, relationships, and ambitions. As you navigate this season, let God be your foundation. Never forget—you are loved and you are not alone.
MacDonald’s stark warning exposes the lie of self-reliance that permeates our culture. As a young adult, you’re bombarded with messages to “be your own boss,” to carve your own path, and to define your truth. While independence has value, MacDonald reminds us that claiming absolute ownership of your life leads to isolation and despair. True freedom comes from surrendering to God, who created you for a purpose greater than yourself.
This surrender feels counterintuitive in a world that equates strength with control. You might fear that giving your life to God means losing your identity or dreams. But God’s call to surrender is not about erasing you—it’s about fulfilling you. When you let go of the need to be your own savior, you discover a God who knows you better than you know yourself, who guides you through the uncertainties of young adulthood with wisdom and love.
Consider the moments when self-reliance has left you exhausted or lost. Contrast that with the peace of trusting God’s plan, even when it’s unclear. Surrender doesn’t mean passivity but active trust—choosing to follow Christ in your decisions, relationships, and ambitions. As you navigate this season, let God be your foundation. Never forget—you are loved and you are not alone.
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