Understanding Submission: Lessons from the Heart

Submission is a concept that often sparks varied reactions and interpretations. For some, it carries the weight of obligation, while for others, it evokes a deeper sense of connection and love. Recently, the Holy Spirit led me into a profound reflection on this topic, helping me understand submission not just as an act but as a matter of the heart.

The Question: Who Determines Submission?

A question lingered in my heart: “What is true submission and who determines who is submitted?” I sought clarity, revisiting messages shared by Prophet Elvis Mbonye on the subject. But it wasn’t until a casual moment during lunch preparation that the Holy Spirit brought everything into focus.

He reminded me of a statement my mother had made about her househelps:

“It is [my daughter] who trains all my househelps because she knows what I like,why and how I like it.”

This comment, seemingly simple, became the foundation for a deeper revelation about submission.

Submission: A Matter of the Heart

Submission, I realized, is much more than compliance with instructions. It is born out of intimacy, understanding, and love. Reflecting on my relationship with my mother, I saw how her approach had shaped my understanding of submission.

Intimacy and Connection: My submission to her ways grew naturally because of the time we spent together. Her love toward me established a bond that made submission effortless.

Understanding the Why and How: Beyond the “what,” she consistently explained the “why” and “how” behind her preferences. This understanding allowed me to act not just out of duty but with clarity and purpose.

Transformation through Presence: Much of what I know about her came not from explicit instructions or conversations but from being around her, observing her, and absorbing her ways. This organic growth shaped my actions and my heart.

Servant vs. Son/Daughter

The difference between a servant and a son/daughter became strikingly clear.

The Servant: Operates from instruction to instruction, often stuck in the absence of specific guidance. Their focus is on compliance, not connection.

The Son/Daughter: Goes beyond instructions. They embody the essence of their parent, acting with understanding and love. Their labour carries a unique, intangible quality that reflects their intimate relationship with their parent. My mother could always tell when I had done something because it carried a personal touch—an added “thang” that came from love, not mere obligation.

Lessons on Submission

1. Submission is Caught, Not Just Taught

True submission flows from a deep, intimate relationship. It is not something that can be forced or demanded. Instead, it grows organically as love and understanding are nurtured.

2. The Heart Matters More than the Act

While actions are important, they are a reflection of the heart. Submission rooted in love will always surpass mere compliance.

3. Seek the Why and How

Instructions are valuable, but understanding the reasoning and method behind them fosters a deeper connection and greater effectiveness.

4. Intimacy with the Anointing

Just as I learned my mother’s ways by being around her, growing in submission to God requires intimacy with His Spirit. As we spend time in His presence, His essence rubs off on us, shaping our thoughts and actions.

Conclusion

Submission is not about subjugation or losing oneself; it is a heart posture that grows out of love, intimacy, and understanding. Whether in our earthly relationships or our walk with God, true submission transforms us into reflections of the one we are submitted to.

Let us strive not to be servants living from instruction to instruction but sons and daughters who carry the essence of the One who loves us deeply. Through submission, we find not just guidance but purpose, clarity, and the beauty of a relationship built on love.