#52 - Independence and Dependence Upon God (Dr. Shaw)

In the US, as we celebrate the July 4th signing of the Declaration of Independence, we should also remember our need for complete dependence upon God. Why? Because as followers of Christ, we cannot forget that we need God - every day, every hour, every minute. Proverbs 3:5-8 states, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart,  and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones." Fearing the Lord includes dependence upon Him. An addict's decisions at times are independent of God, pursuing idols of the heart. We need to help addicts understand the fear of the Lord - turning AWAY from sin TO Christ. In doing so, the addict can find hope and healing.  Additionally, too often we, as independent-minded Americans (and humans!), tend to pursue our own ways while neglecting to spend time with God and being plugged into the Body of Christ. Hebrews 10:23-25 tells us, "Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."