Dependence

I grew up learning about Independence as our country separated from the taxation and oversight of the British government. We became an independent nation with our own government and laws for ourselves. We celebrate Independence Day every year on July 4 here in the United States.  Our independent spirit seems to be part of our DNA.

When I study the life of Jesus, there was a level of independence modeled by Him in the conflict with the religious leaders who had made following God nearly impossible. It appears that they were the only ones who could really follow God. They were the rule keepers and the rule makers. They added a lot of traditional laws to the Law that God gave Moses. Jesus came to introduce a new law – the law of love. This was a radical message at the time and the people could become independent of the religious leaders and their faith connected them directly with Creator God.

Jesus was not really all about independence. He taught and modeled heavy dependence upon God. From the moment He called His followers, He taught them to depend upon God for everything. Check this out…

Then Jesus went from village to village, teaching the people. And he called his twelve disciples together and began sending them out two by two, giving them authority to cast out evil spirits. He told them to take nothing for their journey except a walking stick—no food, no traveler’s bag, no money. He allowed them to wear sandals but not to take a change of clothes.

12 So the disciples went out, telling everyone they met to repent of their sins and turn to God. 13 And they cast out many demons and healed many sick people, anointing them with olive oil. (Mark 6b-9; 12-13 NLT)

It took me a hot minute to learn that everything I’ve accomplished or any influence that I may have comes from dependence upon the Lord. I also have help from others that I depend upon. The Lord wants my total dependence upon Him.

I should declare my dependence upon Him. I should celebrate my dependence upon the Lord every day. He is the reason I’m alive. He walks with me. He talks with me. He leads me. He loves me. He forgives me. He seasons my conversation.  He gives me perspective. He gives me peace. He gives me favor.

When I reflect on the goodness and the incredible love of God, my declaration of dependence is relatively simple and straightforward.

Pressing On!

Dwayne

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