We continued to look at idols which can take root in our lives. We can look to appearance, food, body image, and health to name a few.
But one stood out from the rest, almost like the leader of the pack – the idol of self-sufficiency. Society feeds us the lie that we are enough, we can do anything, we are stronger than we think. Motivational speakers and memes will further cause us to believe in ourselves.
“The greatest danger of this idol is that it preaches a life that revolves around us and our efforts and ultimately can lead to a daily denial of our need for Jesus.”
(from More Than Anything, by The Daily Grace Co., page 35)
Looking at that sentence, it was the words “a daily denial” which stood out to me. They stand in opposition to Jesus being our daily bread.
Being independent, and self-sufficient, can lead us away from our greatest need – our need for Jesus. Our need to be in His sustaining, life-giving Word.
In John 15, Jesus gives us the illustration of the Vine and the branches. As I read the verses, it was verse 8 that stood out:
“My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.” (NASB)
We aren’t to be self-sufficient but lean on the all sufficient One.
In this God is glorified, our lives are productive or fruitful,
and we prove to those around us that we are His disciples.
Image by Claudette Gallant from Pixabay
Today I may be joining … Tell His Story
I’ve been worn out when I follow the self-sufficient path, too! The verse you shared reminds me that we show Jesus to others when we rely our greatest need – Him.
For me, leaning on God helps so much with my inner peace. I lean on him in many ways for him to remind me he is there for us. Nice to read this this morning. Thanks Joanne. Have good day.