A life of Dependence

Human life is entirely built on dependence.

In this world, no field or area exists without relying on someone or something else.

A family depends on the head of the household, children depend on their parents, employees depend on employers, people depend on leaders, and leaders depend on resources. In one way or another, everyone lives a life of dependence.

A Historical Illustration

In history, when Dr. D. I. Wonderpool visited the country of Samoa, a denomination called Manuma honored him by presenting a special mat known as the Fine Mat.

They explained, “As long as you stay in this country, this mat will be your support. If you show it, travel will be free, medical care will be free, and food will be provided. This mat will take care of all your needs.”

They said this mat had great value because the Queen herself once stood on it and spoke.

Dr. Wonderpool humorously asked,

“If I depend on this mat, can it prevent my death?”

This question reveals an important truth.

The Limitation of Earthly Dependence

Everything we depend on in this world is imperfect, temporary, and changeable.

Human systems, wealth, authority, and recognition cannot give eternal security.

But God alone is perfect, unchanging, and eternal.

He is the same yesterday, today, and forever He alone is truly worthy of our dependence.

God’s Desire for Humanity

God desires that people should not rely on their own understanding, but trust Him completely with a whole heart.

Proverbs 3:5

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

Biblical Examples of Dependence

Throughout Scripture, we see clear examples of rightful dependence:

Sheep depend on the shepherd

Branches depend on the vine

Disciples depend on the teacher

When sheep depend on the shepherd, they experience care and protection.

When branches depend on the vine, they experience growth and fruitfulness.

When disciples depend on the teacher, they experience learning and transformation.

False Foundations of Trust

People of this world often depend on:

Human strength

Money

Jobs

Leaders

Governments

We all know the truth, these things can change, fail, or disappear.

But God never changes.

When we depend on God, He is glorified, and the one who truly depends on Him becomes a genuine worshiper.

Isaiah 31:1

“Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help.”

Psalm 20:7

“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.”

Psalm 40:4

“Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.”

A Call to Reflection

So we must ask ourselves an important question:

What is our trust? What is our true foundation?

As we step into this New Year, let us choose not to depend on our own understanding, but to trust the Lord with our whole heart.

Let us grow and flourish in His grace.

2 Timothy 2:1

“Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.”

-Elisha Bonnke