"I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13 (NIV)
"Wow, do I ever need this workout," she groans to her friend on the next treadmill. "Between shaky finances, job insecurity, and a jerky boyfriend, my life’s a mess."
"Need some help?"
"No. Thanks anyway. I know I can make it all work. Just wish I could figure out how."
Self-sufficiency. The all-American can-do spirit. We’re responsible for ourselves.
If we can’t “pull it out” under our own power, we’re just weaklings. So in a tight spot we call on our inner strength to get us through. But someday we might reach inside only to find that the well has gone dry.
From God's perspective, self-sufficient people are always turning away. They ignore him to “do it my way." And why do we insist on going it alone? Maybe it’s because the values of our independent society speak louder than our commitment to Christ.
Consider this. Who actually controls the universe – God or us? That’s a silly question. But if we don’t even have the power to add an extra minute to our lives, why do we try to fix every situation alone? Could it be that when we “do it all,” we’re actually playing God?
This self-reliant attitude might look strong, but it’s a spiritual detour that takes us farther and farther away from our one true support system. Wouldn’t it be better to rely on God and drink the waters of his never-ending well instead?
Check out these steps to get off the treadmill of self-sufficiency:
·Make a U-turn. Walk back toward God.
·Admit that you can't solve everything yourself. Get some help.
·Depend on God. He hasn’t let you down yet!
God is much closer than you realize. Just call his name and he’ll be at your side to comfort and strengthen you. He holds you in his everlasting arms so you're never alone. But remember, God won't fix any situation if you insist on running the show. So the next time he appears with a lifeboat, don't turn him away!
Living for God (TM) offers resources on Christian living. Check them out at www.livingforgod.net or call (719) 578-8837.
