JULY 7: “ACTING LIKE YOU DO NOT NEED GOD”

Self-confidence can be self-destructive sometimes. One should have self- confidence, but realize his or her own limitations and depend on God for everything. We are not without error and must always rely on God’s strength. Apostle Paul declared “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” Phili, 4:13.

Recognizing God as the True and Only Source shows dependence. Jesus taught his disciples to depend on their Heavenly Father daily for provisions in the Lord’s Prayer. He states, “give us this day our daily bread” Luke 11:3. As daily dependence guarantees daily supply from God, so does independence cut a man off from Him.

Everyone needs God. We all are created by the Lord and our very essence is from Him. Not praying and seeking His help about everything can be a sign of independence from God. This attitude guarantees a man’s failure and his inevitable downfall. Personal accomplishments and successes can become a threat that brings down a successful man who believes his accomplishments are by his or her own power. We should learn from King Nebuchadnezzar! There is a wise saying that ‘the greatest enemy of today’s success is yesterday’s success!’

In Deuteronomy 8:18-19, The Lord warns the Israelites not to forget God by thinking they accomplished their wealth by their own power. In Zech. 4:6, “not by might, nor by power, but my spirit, says the Lord of hosts.” This is indicative that the true source of strength is the spirit of God. Jesus warns against self- sufficiency in John 15:4 saying that we must remain connected to the TRUE source as without him, we can do nothing!

PRAYER: Father Lord, please help me to be mindful of you as the source of all my success and give me the grace never to forget you or become puffed up in Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.