How can we strengthen our dependence on God in challenging times? Facing Where We’ve Run for Help Lamentations 5:6 sets the tone: “We have submitted to Egypt and Assyria to get enough bread”. In desperate times, Judah reached for political alliances instead of the Lord. Their confession exposes a choice every believer still faces—lean on human resources or lean wholly on God. Seeing the High Cost of Self-Reliance • Egypt and Assyria looked strong, yet both eventually crumbled. • Depending on them brought temporary relief but lasting bondage. • 1 Samuel 12:21 reminds, “Do not turn aside after worthless things that cannot profit or deliver.” Lesson: anything we trust more than God will ultimately disappoint and enslave. Returning to the Only Sure Foundation • Isaiah 31:1 warns, “Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help… but do not look to the Holy One of Israel.” • Psalm 46:1 declares, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Dependence on God begins by confessing misplaced trust and turning back to Him as the sole refuge. Practical Ways to Deepen Dependence Today • Daily Scripture intake – Romans 10:17: faith grows by hearing God’s Word. – Read, memorize, and recite promises that counter fear. • Persistent, honest prayer – Philippians 4:6-7: present every need; His peace guards the heart. • Corporate worship and fellowship – Hebrews 10:24-25: mutual encouragement keeps us anchored when storms hit. • Surrender of control – Proverbs 3:5-6: trust with all your heart, acknowledge Him in all ways, and He will direct your paths. • Choosing obedience over shortcuts – Matthew 6:33: seek first His kingdom, and necessities will be added. • Regular remembrance of past deliverances – Psalm 77:11: “I will remember the deeds of the LORD.” Recounting His faithfulness fuels fresh confidence. Guarding Against Subtle “Egypts” and “Assyrias” • Financial security that edges out generosity • Relationships prized above righteousness • Technology and entertainment that numb prayerful dependence • Self-help philosophies that crowd out biblical truth Identify these rivals, renounce them, and realign your heart with the Lord. Living the Contrast Judah’s lament shows where misplaced trust leads—empty hands and aching hearts. The gospel shows the opposite path: Christ bore our deepest need at the cross, rose, and now invites full reliance on Him. By clinging to His Word, praying without ceasing, gathering with His people, and obeying His voice, we find unshakeable help in every crisis. |
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