By Benescke Janse van Rensburg

Two weeks ago, I fell off the stairs and broke my leg. An operation was needed to repair the damage to my ankle. Overnight I moved from being totally independent and taking on life at speed to sitting and being completely dependent on others for help.  For me, it is very frustrating at times. Every movement is accompanied by pain, so you have to think carefully if you really want to go somewhere with the crutches.

My one question throughout was, “Father show me what do I need to learn from this?” In my life, I believe that there is always a reason for everything that happens - good or bad. Last night, the light suddenly went on for me.

Isn't that perhaps what it means to be totally dependent on God? It's easy to say that we put God first and that we acknowledge Him in a matter, but what does it mean practically? Are we willing to say “no” to an enticing prroject with a lot of money, because we do not have peace in our hearts? Are we willing to break contact with someone outside of our marriage, because it negatively affects our marriage? Do we have so much awe of God, that we are willing to wait quietly in His presence for an answer or do we make decisions and simply inform Him of it?

In 2 Chronicles 16: 9 we read: “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.” In Psalm 27:14, we read: “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” And then in Psalm 53:2 we are reminded that God sees us as we wait for an answer in His presence: “God looks down from heaven on all mankind to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God.”

Initially, dependency feels frustrating because we give up control. Yet, there is a gift hidden in the surrender: Protection. May I encourage you to surrender, be quiet and listen. God honors that. God bless.

Father God thank you so much that I can bend my knees before You in dependence, knowing that You protect me. Please guide me with wisdom (name the area). I ask thisin the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

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