I was having a moment last week where I finally cried out, saying “I’m so needy!” And God’s response was so gentle—I love needy people.
Dependence is never criticized when it comes to relationship with God. He loves it when we walk in dependence and trust in Him. Sometimes we make ourselves needy for other people or circumstances to change, but this doesn’t bring the desired result. Other people won’t be able to meet our needs, and change in circumstances is only temporary. Instead, we can come to Him when we are weary, heavy-laden and desperate.
He will not receive us with disappointment as we might expect. Instead, He welcomes us with open arms and holds us close to infuse us with rest and peace. God loves to bring us close when we will let Him do so.
Often I want to strong-arm Him, claiming that I know better or can do better on my own. Or that I’m trying to prove myself so He will accept me. This, of course, is a lie, as there is no point at which I can do enough to gain acceptance—acceptance is already given as a free gift!
Abiding in Christ and recognizing He must fulfill all we need through us does not mean we avoid difficult situations, as much as I wish that was true. It means that no matter what we face, we don’t face it alone and we don’t face it in our own power.
As I embrace acceptance, recognizing that my own strength and will-power is not enough to do this life, I am able to open my hands freely to accept all that He has for me. He calls me close and infuses me with ability that goes beyond anything I could handle on my own. This is the beautiful result of dependence on Jesus—supernatural life that rises above all circumstance and brings peace and joy no matter what is going on around.
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. Matthew 11:28-30