Does surrender feel more like defeat than freedom? You're not alone. In this episode, Rachel sits down with author, literary agent, and artist Mary DeMuth to explore why letting go of what we tightly grip actually leads to the peace we're desperately seeking.

Mary shares the personal journey behind her beautiful new illustrated devotional, The Freedom of Surrender, and opens up about her own struggles with control—including surrendering her past, disappointing relationships, and even her stubbornness. Through stunning original artwork and powerful metaphors, she shows us that surrender isn't saying "it's okay that it happened"—it's opening our hands and letting God carry what we were never meant to hold.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why surrender brings peace instead of more stress
• How to let go of past hurts without letting go of justice
• The difference between controlling our lives and trusting God through suffering
• How trials deepen our prayer lives in unexpected ways
• Five powerful takeaways for finding freedom through surrender

Whether you're gripping tightly to a relationship, a circumstance, or your own need for control, this conversation will encourage you to release it into God's capable hands—and discover the freedom waiting on the other side.

Connect with Mary DeMuth:

• Website: marydemuth.com
• Free Gift: 12 phone lock screens featuring art from the book at marydemuth.com

Resources Mentioned:

• The Freedom of Surrender devotional by Mary DeMuth (available wherever books are sold)

Until next time, remember: God sees you, He hears you, and He knows your needs.