Dependence

Tuesday, July 11

Dependence      

I mean that I want us to help each other with the faith we have. Your faith will help me, and my faith will help you.” Romans 1:12

The society that we live in tells us that we need to be independent. It is part of growing up, to determine our own future, career, relationships and finances. Unfortunately, this drive to be a mature and independent person often results in a lesser dependence on God. As a believer we understand that mutual dependency is a vital part of the believers walk.

God’s Word says in the Message Translation, “The way God designed our bodies is a model for understanding our lives together as a church: every part dependent on every other part” (1 Corinthians 12:25).

In an age of self-sufficiency and one-upmanship, it may seem counterproductive to talk about dependence. For many, dependence is a sign of undignified weakness. However, the Word of God contradicts this statement. Mutuality is at the center of fellowship — building reciprocal relationships, sharing responsibilities, and helping each other.

For the believer, dependence is everything. Dependence on God and our dependence on each other. I discovered this is written more than 50 times in the New Testament. We are commanded to do different tasks for “one another” and “each other.” While you are not responsible for everyone in the Body of Christ, you are responsible to them. God expects you to do whatever you can to help them.

Prayer for today: Dear Lord, help me to discover that I am my brother’s keeper. Help me to let go of self-dependence, open my heart and be encouraged by others. Help me to see those You have sent to heal me. Amen.