Submission is the way

By John Wyatt

'For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.'

Matthew 16:25

When I got my first “real” full-time job, I worked as a Worship Pastor in London.

I was buzzing. But I was also arrogant.

I came in with strong opinions, quick to change things, slow to listen. I criticised anything that didn’t match my preferences or theology. I wasn’t malicious—I just assumed I knew best.

It didn’t take long before friction set in. I had awkward interactions, disagreements with teammates, and a growing sense of isolation. I felt miserable… and I’m pretty sure I was making others feel the same.

Eventually I reached a tipping point.

I could either leave, or stop trying to fight for control. So I made a decision to submit—to serve the team instead of reshaping it. I began asking, “How would you like this done?” And honestly, everything changed.

Relationships improved. Trust grew.

I was given more responsibility. And most importantly, we started to see fruit—more people reached, more impact, more joy.

That season taught me that submission isn’t weakness—it’s strength under control. It’s not about losing yourself, it’s about choosing to serve someone else’s vision instead of your own. Jesus did exactly that. The most powerful person to ever live chose submission.

He washed feet. He gave up comfort. He laid down his life.

Matthew 16:25 reminds us that losing our lives for Jesus leads to finding real life. That was true for me—and still is. Every time I’m tempted to push my way to the front, I remember: Jesus didn’t.

And if I want to follow him, submission is the way.