I use to have the mentality that when a problem arose, I had to automatically figure out how to fix it and give a solution (whether it’s a more apparent trait in guys is another discussion haha). My equation to solve things was a combination of the world’s finite wisdom, my own faulty strength and reliance on the same volatile strength of fellow imperfect people. It was a recipe that could easily blow up in the oven at any time. When it seemed to work, it gave temporary self-pride and satisfaction, which in the end accounted for more worries, headaches, disappointments and frustrations when the given solution failed or when I couldn’t figure one out.
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. (Proverbs 3:5-8 ESV)
However, after getting to really know Christ more, I came to realize how erroneous my approach was. The fact that God is all powerful, all knowing, and in control of all things should have been a logical given that I could rely on Him for everything, yet I was throwing that under the bus whenever I looked to myself and other imperfect, worldly means to solve situations. My method of solving not only showed my lack of trust in the Lord, but my lack of acknowledgement of His mighty hand which is in control of everything. By not turning to Him first, not bringing it up to Him in constant prayer, not waiting patiently for His perfect timing, and pushing worldly knowledge/methods above wisdom from God’s word, I was showing others how little I really relied on the Lord and did nothing to point back to Christ in my life. He asked for faith even as little as a mustard seed, yet I couldn’t even give Him that. It shows how actions can speak louder than words.
A strong dependency on the Lord must be consciously built up. It takes a constant awareness and growth in one’s relationship with Christ and the reminder of who He truly is on a moment by moment basis to help build up our reliance on Him; cause we tend to be very forgetful people. I can’t say that I don’t slip up in this area even now, yet I am so grateful that the Holy Spirit convicts me each time to strip away my old mentality and to truly rely on Christ. As I do so, I see greater results and solutions than anything I could ever do through my own means.
I pray that those in Christ may be conscious about who they are truly relying on in every aspect of their lives. May it not be on your own self or anything in this world, but on Christ who can make any path straight.
