Sunday, July 21, 2024

Dependence on God: Lessons from My Grandsons

By Writing & Photography by David K. Carpenter on July 21, 2024

Introduction

This past week, I had the incredible joy and blessing of welcoming my second grandson into the world while continuing to spend time with my 2-year-old grandson. Observing the stark contrast between the complete helplessness of a newborn and the growing, yet still limited, independence of a toddler has offered me profound insights into our own relationship with God.

The Helplessness of a Newborn

My newborn grandson is utterly dependent on his parents for everything. He needs them for nourishment, comfort, warmth, and protection. He can't do anything on his own. He can't even hold up his head or focus his eyes. His vulnerability is a poignant reminder of the initial stage of life where survival is entirely dependent on the care and provision of others.

Nothing to Deserve This Love and Protection

It's also worth noting that this newborn has done nothing to deserve or earn the love and protection his parents give him. But they give it to him anyway, because they love him. Does that sound familiar?

The Small Steps of Independence

Anyway, back to the narrative about both my grandsons. In contrast to the newborn, my 2-year-old grandson is starting to explore the world with a bit of independence. He can walk, communicate his basic needs, and even play on his own and with his doggy friends for short periods. Yet, despite these small steps toward autonomy, he remains profoundly dependent on his parents. He needs their guidance, support, and care. He can't yet navigate life's complexities or dangers on his own.

Our Illusion of Independence

As adults, we often pride ourselves on our independence. We like to think we've got it all under control. We're the Marlboro Man or Wonder Woman—self-sufficient and ruggedly independent. This cultural ideal can lead us to believe that we only need God in times of crisis, when things get really bad. However, the truth is far from this illusion. We are more like my infant grandson, or at best, my 2-year-old grandson, in our dependence on God. We wouldn't last a day without Him.

Biblical Perspective on Dependence

The Bible reminds us of our need to approach God with the humility and dependence of a child. Jesus Himself emphasized this when He said:

"Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven."

Matthew 18:3 (NIV)

This verse highlights the importance of recognizing our dependence on God. Like children, we are to trust in His provision, guidance, and care, acknowledging that we cannot navigate life's complexities on our own.

Every Breath a Gift

We don't think of it every time we breathe, but our very existence is sustained by God. Each breath we take is a gift from Him, as Luke, the author of the Book of Acts points out:

"For in him we live and move and have our being."

Acts 17:28 (NIV)

This verse reminds us that our lives are intricately connected to God. Without His sustaining power, we wouldn't be able to draw our next breath, let alone handle the challenges and responsibilities of life.

Embracing Our Dependence

Recognizing our dependence on God is not a sign of weakness but an acknowledgment of reality. It is in this acknowledgment that we find true strength and peace. When we rely on God, we tap into His infinite wisdom, strength, power, and love. Paul the Apostle encourages us with these words:

"I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

Philippians 4:13 (NIV)

This verse reassures us that with God's help, we can face any situation, no matter how daunting it may seem.

Conclusion: Living in Dependence

As I reflect on the growth and dependence of my grandsons, I am reminded of our own need for God. We may achieve small steps of independence in our lives, but in reality, we are wholly dependent on our Creator. Let us embrace this dependence, not as a limitation, but as a source of strength and peace. After all, as Paul reminds us:

May we, like children, trust in God's provision, guidance, and care. Let us remember that every breath we take is a gift from Him and that we can do all things through Him who gives us strength. In acknowledging our dependence on God, we find the true freedom to live fully and confidently in His grace and love.