Learning to depend fully on God

(This is a condensed version of the sermon preached by Michael on January 18, 2025.)

Jesus opens the Sermon on the Mount with a surprising vision of happiness: “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” In a world that celebrates self-sufficiency, confidence, and control, Jesus points us in the opposite direction. True happiness does not grow out of independence, but out of a deep awareness of our need for God. When we recognize our dependence on Him, we discover a life that is both freer and fuller.
One way this dependence takes shape is through trusting God’s wisdom rather than our own. Human insight can be helpful, but it is also limited and often shaped by emotion, fear, or pride. Scripture invites us to seek God’s perspective through prayer and reflection on His Word. When we ask God for wisdom, we acknowledge that He sees what we cannot. This humble posture opens our lives to guidance that leads not just to good decisions, but to lasting peace.
Dependence on God also means relying on His strength instead of our own. Weakness is something most of us try to hide or overcome, yet the Bible presents it as a place where God’s power is most clearly revealed. There are seasons when our energy, resolve, or ability simply runs out. In those moments, we are reminded that God does not withdraw from us. Instead, He meets us in our weakness and carries us when we can no longer carry ourselves.
Another area where trust is tested is timing. Waiting can feel frustrating or even discouraging, especially when prayers seem unanswered or progress feels slow. Yet God is never idle. Even in silence or delay, He is shaping us and preparing what comes next. What feels like waiting is often an invitation to deepen our trust, believing that God’s timing is not only perfect, but purposeful.
Dependence on God also reshapes how we respond to conflict and criticism. Our instinct is to defend ourselves, justify our actions, or strike back when we are misunderstood. Jesus shows a different way—entrusting Himself to God and refusing retaliation. When we allow God to be our defender, we are freed from the burden of proving ourselves and can live with humility and peace.
Finally, true dependence touches our relationship with money and security. Anxiety easily grows when our sense of safety rests on income, savings, or possessions. God invites us to trust in His provision, reminding us that He knows our needs and is faithful to care for us. When our security is rooted in Him, generosity replaces fear and gratitude replaces worry.
Maximum happiness is not found in self-reliance, but in learning to lean fully on God. As we trust Him with our wisdom, strength, timing, protection, and provision, we discover the quiet joy of a life held securely in His hands.