Living in Dependence

Independence is great for a group, but within a group of people there is dependence.  

We are dependent on Jesus for our salvation for Jesus died for our freedom.  

Galatians 5:1 (NET Bible)

For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be subject again to the yoke of slavery.

3 Myths of Independence

1. I can't help myself.

2. I must protect myself.

3.  I can take care of myself.  I've got this.

True freedom comes from living in dependence on the right things.

Philippians 3:5-9 (NET Bible)

5 I was circumcised on the eighth day, from the people of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews. I lived according to the law as a Pharisee. 

6 In my zeal for God I persecuted the church. According to the righteousness stipulated in the law I was blameless.

7 But these assets I have come to regard as liabilities because of Christ. 

8 More than that, I now regard all things as liabilities compared to the far greater value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things—indeed, I regard them as dung!—that I may gain Christ, 

9 and be found in him, not because I have my own righteousness derived from the law, but because I have the righteousness that comes by way of Christ’s faithfulness—a righteousness from God that is in fact based on Christ’s faithfulness.

Acts 4:31-33  (NET Bible)

31 When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak the word of God courageously.

32 The group of those who believed were of one heart and mind, and no one said that any of his possessions was his own, but everything was held in common. 

33 With great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was on them all.

1. We must live in dependence on God in  prayer.  

Prayer is just a conversation with God.  Prayer encompasses praise and puts you into the presence of God.  It provides a power that you don't have alone. 

Psalm 100:4 (NET Bible)

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give him thanks!

Praise his name!

2. Live in dependence on people.  

This may be your greatest pain, but it is where God works.  Have people in your life that love Jesus.

3.  Live in dependence on God's promises.  The promises of God bring hope.  Here are some of them.

1 John 4:4 (NET Bible)

4 You are from God, little children, and have conquered them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

Romans 8:28 (NET Bible)

28 And we know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose,

Jeremiah 29:11 (NET Bible)

11 For I know what I have planned for you,’ says the Lord. ‘I have plans to prosper you, not to harm you. I have plans to give you a future filled with hope.

Layne Schranz, Church of the Highlands

https://www.churchofthehighlands.com/media/message/living-in-dependence