“Surrender” is a scary word, isn’t it? It sounds like defeat, like giving up.
But when it comes to our relationship with God, surrender is actually the key to peace, joy, and freedom.
Letting go of control doesn’t mean you’re giving up — it means you’re giving in to God’s perfect plan for your life. And that, my friend, is a beautiful thing.
If you’ve ever found yourself trying to control every little detail of your life, overthinking every decision, or staying up at night playing out worst-case scenarios, you’re not alone.
We’ve all been there. Trusting God with every part of our lives — our families, careers, health, and future — isn’t always easy.
But it is possible.
Here are 7 practical steps you can take to “let go and let God” in every area of your life.
(You can download a printable version of this page at the very end.)
1. Admit That You’re Not in Control (And That’s Okay!)
It sounds simple, but it’s one of the hardest steps to take. We like to feel in control of our lives.
We want to have the answers, plan the outcomes, and avoid uncertainty.
But here’s the truth: You were never in control to begin with.
The good news is, God is in control. He sees the big picture, and He knows what’s best for you.
When you admit that you don’t have to figure everything out, it lifts a massive weight off your shoulders.
How to apply this step:
Pray something simple like, “God, I’m tired of trying to control everything. I give it to You. Take over and lead me.” You don’t need fancy words. God knows your heart.
Verse to remember:
“The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” — Proverbs 16:9
2. Identify What You’re Holding On To
We all have “that thing” we struggle to surrender. Maybe it’s your finances, your marriage, your health, or your career.
Whatever it is, God already knows about it — and He’s asking you to place it in His hands.
Sometimes, we hold on because we believe the lie that we can do it better than God. Other times, it’s fear that if we let go, things will fall apart.
But God has never let you down, and He’s not about to start now.
How to apply this step:
Take a moment to reflect: What are you still trying to control? Write it down in a journal or say it out loud in prayer. Then tell God, “Lord, I trust You with (insert your struggle here). I know You have a better plan than I do.”
Verse to remember:
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” — 1 Peter 5:7
3. Release It to God in Prayer (For Real This Time!)
Let’s be honest — sometimes we say we’re giving something to God, but five minutes later, we’re worrying about it again.
It’s like handing God a box and then snatching it back.
Real surrender means truly handing it over and leaving it there.
Picture yourself placing your worry, situation, or struggle into God’s hands and walking away.
How to apply this step:
The next time anxiety creeps in, stop what you’re doing and pray:
“God, I’m giving this situation back to You. I know I’ve been holding onto it, but I choose to trust You now. Take it and give me peace.”
Verse to remember:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” — Philippians 4:6
4. Replace Worry with Worship
Here’s a game-changer: You can’t worry and worship at the same time.
One will always push the other out. So if worry is taking over, it’s time to start praising God.
When we worship, we shift our focus off of our problems and onto the One who can solve them. Worship reminds us of God’s power, faithfulness, and love.
Suddenly, the things we were worried about don’t seem so big anymore.
How to apply this step:
When you feel overwhelmed, turn on worship music and sing along. You can also spend 5 minutes each day listing things you’re grateful for. Gratitude is a form of worship!
Verse to remember:
“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10
5. Surrender Daily (Not Just Once)
Surrender isn’t a one-time event — it’s a daily decision. Every morning, you’ll have to choose to trust God again.
Every night, you’ll have to resist the urge to pick your worries back up.
Here’s a secret: It gets easier with time. The more you see God come through for you, the more you’ll trust Him next time.
How to apply this step:
Start each morning with this simple prayer:
“God, I don’t know what today holds, but I know You’re in control. I trust You with every part of it.”
Verse to remember:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” — Proverbs 3:5
Looking for some additional resources for studying the Bible? Here is an extensive library of (free) monthly topical Bible reading plans.
6. Stop Trying to “Figure It All Out”
You don’t have to have all the answers. Read that again.
God is the One writing your story, and sometimes He’ll only show you one step at a time.
This can be frustrating, especially if you’re a planner (like me!).
But God is calling you to trust Him step by step, not plan by plan.
How to apply this step:
When you feel overwhelmed by unanswered questions, pray this:
“God, I don’t know the whole plan, but I trust You to guide my next step.”
Verse to remember:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105
7. Trust That God’s Plan Is Better Than Yours
I know, I know — sometimes we think our plan is better. But God sees the end from the beginning.
He knows what’s ahead, and His plan is always for your good, even when it doesn’t feel like it in the moment.
Look back at your life. Can you see the moments where God’s plan turned out better than yours? If He did it before, He’ll do it again.
He truly has good plans for your life!
How to apply this step:
The next time you feel frustrated that things aren’t going according to your plan, say this out loud:
“God, I trust You. I know Your plan is better than mine. Help me to follow Your lead.”
Verse to remember:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11
Reflection
Letting go and letting God isn’t about “doing nothing.” It’s about letting Him be in charge while you walk in faith and obedience.
You’re not giving up — you’re giving over.
God loves you too much to leave you on your own. He’s working things out for your good, even when you can’t see it yet.
- Which area of your life are you struggling to surrender to God right now (your family, finances, health, future, etc.)? What is one small step you can take today to give it over to Him?
- When was a time in your life when you trusted God and saw Him work things out in a way that was better than your original plan? How can remembering that moment encourage you to trust Him again?
- What’s one daily habit you can create to remind yourself to surrender control to God (like starting your morning with prayer, journaling, or listening to worship music)? How will you put it into practice this week?
If you’ve been holding on to control, I challenge you to try these 7 steps. Surrender your heart, your plans, and your fears to God.
Then watch Him work in ways you never imagined.
You don’t have to have it all figured out, friend. You just have to trust the One who does.
Be sure to download a printable version of this page to keep in your study journal!
I love how you mentioned “every day we have the chance to renew our mind in Christ.” I think we often get into the mindset that our transformation in Christ takes place on its own when really it is a conscious, intentional decision we must make every day!
Yes, I’m just now realizing that if I don’t renew my mind, I will never make it through the day!
Growing up, my best friend’s mom had a framed sign hanging in their house that said “Let Go and Let God” and I never really understood why that phrase meant so much to her. But now, as an adult, I get it 100%. We get so wrapped up in our day to day crises of every size and to-do lists that we need to be reminded on the regular! Giving it to God brings so much freedom, but for some reason we get hesitant. My guiding word this year is Intention. More specifically, I want to be intentional about godly surrender. This post on giving it all over to God, was such a sweet reminder!
Thank you! I love that she had that sign. I think I should put one in every room of my house.
Amen that’s is so true we need to surrender without God we are nothing we need him every single do you ever life he is our strength our refuge our courage and walk in the holy spirit ain’t nobody God hear the truth and accept it it is so true to stay around positive people who can help you amen God can deliver us for no matter what place your shape we’re in we can just say seek him and put him in sinor of your life you have to have a Christian direct life and instead of a self-directed life that means you have to live God’s will not the will that you want to
I appreciate this post and your YouTube! It is important to give it all to God because baggage gets heavy and pretty soon we do become so bogged down we have no energy left for anybody including God. Our family from all over the states do a Bible plan on You Version and it is a great way to hear each other’s hearts and stay in touch with accountability.
That baggage does get so heavy and it’s not worth carrying! Jesus is more than capable. I love that your family does the Bible App together!
This is such a daily thing. I’m always amazed at how I can wonder along quite well and then the Lord puts his finger on something i’ve been holding on to. 9 times out of 10 it’s something that has become an idol in my life, as i’ve allowed it to come between the Lord and I. Daily I look to him to be the eyes I don’t have, and as he sees things I need to let go of, daily I give it to him.
Yes, so many people don’t realize they are carrying idols — me included! That’s why it so important to daily give it all to HIm.
Letting go and giving it to God is probably one of the scariest things I have ever done in my life. But definitely one of the best things!” I know when I start my day with God, in the Word learning His biblical truths, letting go of control throughout the day becomes easier. Thanks for sharing.
Amen! So many of the scariest things are the best things! But once we finally submit, life has more freedom!
I loved your reminder that “giving it to God” is something we need to do every single day. Actually, like you said, it’s a moment-by-moment choice. These are good tips for making sure we’re truly surrendering our lives to the One who’ll bring beauty from even the messes we hand over to Him:)
Agree! We give God our messes, and He produces something beautiful!
I really enjoyed this! It confirmed what we heard in our ladies group on Tuesdays. Giving our “issues” to God, and asking Him to help us let it go.
So glad you are part of a ladies group that is teaching truth that will free you all and give more room for Jesus!
Hi Alisa, good words for us to remember and to live by daily. Giving it to God must occur daily and when we find ourselves picking something backup then we must stop and pray. I find it so easy to try to pick up the issues I have already given to Him
I always finding myself leaning over to pick up worries I had already given God, which is why I must constantly renew! Thank you for your sweet words!
I love that you pointed out giving it to God is a moment-by-moment choice. If only it were a one and done! Thanks for these practical pointers and Bible verses to point to truth!
Give it to God and don’t take it back. 🙂 Great message.
Oh I needed this message. Though I know these truths, I need frequent reminders to yield all that I have, all that I am to God. This is my prayer, let me give it all to You, Lord. Great post!
I love the imagery of all our “stuff” taking up the space that should be occupied by God. I also appreciated your references of “shaving” and “cutting” away worry, anxiety, control, etc. Such truths here. My days are always more manageable when I stick to my quiet time routine. Surrender is a daily commitment! Thank you for this post: strong truth, encouragement, and affirmation.
So encouraging! Just what I need right now. Why is it so hard to so something so ultimately comforting?? Letting go.
I’m really struggling with this. I’m slowly, forcefully, prying my fingers off – but maybe I need to focus more on reach out to God than just letting go.
Oh, wow, love your practical tips to give everything to God in how we start our day. There are several areas where it’s challenging for me to surrender to God – my health, my kids, and my loved ones. It’s way too easy for me to slip into striving and trying to control it all, which is impossible! It gives me so much peace to truly trust in Him and rest in His guidance and care.
Thank you so much for this message! I struggle with letting go everyday. But I’ve lately decided to start my day with a Bible hour. I read Scripture, do a Bible study, do some Bible copywork and pray. I’ve noticed that I begin the day much calmer, even when I’m in the middle of chaos. But even with all that, I still struggle to let God take control the rest of the day. I’m constantly saying “I” need to take care of this or “We” should do this to fix this problem. Thank you for clarifying what I can do in those moments to let go and let God. Blessings!
GOOD without GOD. Get rid of your superstitions. Learn the scientific truth!
I recently learned the scripture about Be still and know that I am God literally means Let Go. That was a big help to me!
Candace – I love your blog and everyone’s thoughts! I am struggling each day with weight that I’ve gained. I have tried this and that, but I have deicded to give it to God again. I am tired of trying to figure out what to do and what not to do. I did that once before and lost over 100 lbs and gained 40 back.
Thank you Alisa for this wonderful and enlightening piece. Financial worries has really caught up with me to my neck and was browsing through the web for testimonies from Christians who may have been though a touch situation like mine and have been delivered. That’s where I stumbled across your blog. All I can say is, you have really lifted my heart and spirit. I am putting your guidance into practice and will gladly share my testimony of the outcome of taking the step of faith in letting go and giving it all to God.
As Christians, it is our duty to reach out to God and put effort into getting to know Him. In order to develop a firm and profound relationship with God, we need to learn more about who He truly is.
thank you Alisa for this wonderful and heartwarming message..Im so blessed with this! as a christian Not every is a joyful day but we do encounter some troubles and we feel worry about it. sometimes I do that ! but thanks for this message it enlighten my Spirit..Thank God for using you as an instrument to blessed us! God bless you Alisa !
Thank you for your great blog. I am one who gives it to God, but I have found myself distracted easily and before I realize it, I have taken the burdens and worries all back. I need to work on moment by moment, thank you for that reminder how easy it is to forget that we have to keep vigilant and be watchful, and trust God to take care of all our baggage. Blessing for your kind heart and sharing!
I couldn’t agree more with you! I let go and take it back. It indeed a great reminder to make a daily practice of letting go to give God room to work or receive from Him.
Very encouraging article. I couldn’t sleep at night and decided to read something and found this. I am refreshed and reminded of how much our God is for us and has done it all for us. There is freedom when we let go as I feel right now! I love your short quote-like statements. Easy to remember and connect to scripture. This is one to bookmark and revisit often. God bless
THIS BLOG WAS AMAZING OH MY GOD!!!!!!!! VERY INSPIRING!! also when I read your bio and how you’re aggressive with leading a simple life, I was thinking, WAIT THAT’S LITERALLY ME. sorry for all caps but yeah. this blog is amazing. Praise God! The words you wrote just spoke to my heart! And so simple, too~
I’ve been having a tough couple of months lately and I have been trying to control a lot of my things on my own and I really needed these steps hopefully I can commit and get on the same page with God
I never knew this what letting go means. Sometimes I think, worry and grumble about thngs will let God knows how we feel. The devil is really making it hard to let go, to pray, to read the Bible.l, from one challenges to another. Sometimes I wonder if I’m going to make heaven. I really thank God for this post. It has shed more light in my life. No matter what the devil brings I should always trust God. God bless you. Do you have a post about God’s time?
I have been a Christian for so long and recently have been struggling with some of these fundamentals. ‘Give your all to God’, ‘Give God control of your life’, ‘Wait on the Lord’. These were easy to say – but when you deal with illness, financial responsibility, parenting & marriage issues, you are expected to do something. You are expected to plan and take action and sometimes that seems to conflict with give God control. Practically what does it mean – just pray and do what you need to do?
Giving everything over to God is simple – in theory. It is not our human nature to just wait on someone else to “rescue” us or to handle our issues. But when we trust that God has a plan and that He will work all things for our good, that IS giving it over to Him. We must still take action on the things we have “control” over but we aren’t supposed to worry or fret over things. When things seem in chaos, just pray and ask God for guidance and direction.
Let go and let God….I had this convo with a colleague this week and we struggled a bit to understand when we are faced with a situation at what stage we do take control and when should we let go and let God. Your comment “But when we trust that God has a plan and that He will work all things for our good, that IS giving it over to Him”, just made it clearer. Thank you
I have literally felt PEACE come over me as I read how to Let Go and Let God! I have tried to be in control of my wayward son. I know he is a Child of God. I know God loves him infinitely more than even I do! He is His and God’s Got This!! Thank you so much!!
Thanks so much for the inspiring reminder, I try to talk with God at least once a day, starting the day by giving thanks is HUGE, my days are almost always better, but ending the day after something rough has happened asking for his help, lets me sleep and renew because I know I will be helped through whatever the issue is. I just have to be quiet and still, and trust, and I can absolutely say I have NEVER been let down! <3 Let go and God
Thank you! Very helpful!
Control is the exact issue I’m dealing with right know – honestly. Thanks for sharing your thoughts… it’s incredibly wonderful to see other bloggers who are focused on Christ – our savior!
(I’d love to see you on my blog too)
I am learning everyday as hold tight to god. I’m just learning to let go and let god. I have a son who is facing so much do to his past life choices. I use to worrie and cry trying to figure out how I could help him. After many many prayers. I realize I can do nothing. All my worrie and tears can’t change anything. But our mighty god can. His will been done no matter what. I gave it to our lord and I have peace that no matter how it ends up god is in control. All I can do is serve god , obey god, love god. Love my son and pray for him . Be there for me son. Only god can help my son. Thank you for letting me share my thoughts on letting go and let god. God bless you all
Am a pregnant mom with a toddler of two years….my marriage as been so frustrating that I feel all hope is lost ..
No finance
My husband treat me as trash
Have lost all hope…but seeing this gives me hope.
I’ve recently let go and let God take away the worries I was having about one of my sons, who is struggling with something major right now and Hod took if from me and replaced it with an indescribable peace and joy that only comes from Him. God is amazing and my relationship with Him has gotten so much closer since I gave Jesus the wheel with this issue! Thank you, Jesus!! 🙌🙏❤️
Was looking for some takes regarding this topic and I found your article quite informative. It has given me a fresh perspective on the topic tackled. Thanks!
Omg!!! This was wonderful, to read and eat on. Not, going to say that my pastor hasn’t already preached and taught on this matter already. However, just to hear it from someone else. Makes it even more plain for me. Yes, I struggle with letting go, and letting God 🤦♀️. But, on today!!! It’s a brand new day for me. N Jesus name 🙌 🙏 ❤️ thank u