Every man climbs some mountain.
Success, control, approval, reputation, you name it.
And at the top, you’ve got a flag in your hand.
Plant it, or surrender it.
Planting the flag says, “I conquered this.”
Waving it says, “Jesus, it’s Yours.”
Most of us don’t realize how many mountains we’ve climbed that God never asked us to.
The Mountain of Self-Made Strength
We want to stand at the summit and say, “I did this.”
But that kind of strength leaves you isolated and empty.
“Apart from Me you can do nothing.” — John 15:5 (NLT)
You weren’t designed to be your own source.
The Mountain of Control
Control feels like security, but it slowly suffocates you.
You try to manage outcomes God never asked you to carry.
“We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps..” — Proverbs 16:9 (NLT)
You can plant the flag of control, or wave the white flag and let Jesus lead.
The Mountain of Approval
Trying to be liked, admired, or validated is an endless climb.
Approval is a treadmill; you never arrive.
“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God?”
— Galatians 1:10 (NIV)
Wave the flag. Live free.
The One Mountain That Matters
Jesus climbed His hill, Calvary, and He didn’t plant a flag.
He surrendered His life.
That surrender is where real victory began.
And it’s where yours begins too.
“I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” — Philippians 3:8 (ESV)
You don’t need another victory.
You need deeper surrender.
A Challenge for Men
Name your mountain.
Where are you trying to conquer instead of surrender?
Ask God:
“Is this a mountain You called me to climb, or one I built myself?”
Pray:
“Jesus, this is Your flag. This is Your mountain. Lead me.”
Victory isn’t found at the peak of your mountain.
Victory is found at the foot of His cross.