Jesus surrendered when He laid down His life, as He opened not His mouth when He was oppressed and afflicted; Isaiah 53:7.  In His total abasement came the powerful resurrection!  Jesus has given us the prime example that in humility there is greatness.  I Peter 5:6 says: “Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt (lift you up) in due time.”  Ephesians 5:1 says to be followers (imitators) of God, as dear children.   His word tells us we imitate Him by living and walking in the nine fruits of His Spirit (which are so pleasurable, but can also be humbling); Galatians 5:22-23.   They are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.  Verses 24-26 goes on to say that those who are Christ’s have crucified (put down) the flesh, encouraging us to not be conceited (puffed up), but to live these fruits.  As we walk in the fruits of His Spirit people will be drawn to God, like they are to a basketful of luscious, sweet fruit.   This may seem like a tall bill to fill, as we are tried and tested, at times not even opening our mouths.  That’s when the ninth fruit, self-control, which is allowing the Holy Spirit to be in control, is necessary.  It’s also good to remind ourselves that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us; Philippians 4:13.  We can be like children, who throw up their hands while playing, saying, “I surrender!”   People will see God, as we put down pride, by not acting wrongly, according to our feelings, and pick up our fruit baskets.   Choosing the right fruit for each situation will strengthen and encourage us also!   As we surrender to walk in God’s fruits, He will roll out the red carpet for us!