Independence

The human heart cries out for independence. This freedom can be wonderful. We experience freedom in various ways: the excitement of young people leaving home for the first time, the relief when a debt is paid, the satisfaction when weighty problems are solved, the reprieve when trials end.

God wants us to be free. But He also wants us to realize that pursuing independence can become a snare! Independence isn’t always a good thing. In fact, sin came into the world when Satan asserted his independence from God and cleverly persuaded Adam and Eve to follow him (and disobey God).

Many people say that they are born again. But are they really committed to the Lord unconditionally? In practical ways, they are full of rebellion. In their own way, they are like Saul, who felt free to interpret God’s Word his own way.

Saul did not understand that God honors those who simply obey Him. As Samuel explained, “to obey is better than sacrifice.” Rebellion, in God’s sight, is just as bad as witchcraft. The quest for independence cost Saul the crown and eventually his life.

Make sure that you seek to honor God with your life. Submit yourself to Him (James 4:7). Only then can you really be free. Be on guard against false and deceptive ideas. Make Jesus your Lord. Serve Him in everything you do in order to experience true freedom.