The Scriptures warn us of the danger of relying on ourselves or others instead of God. One prominent verse is found in Jeremiah 5:17 that says, “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the LORD.”
We will reflect on Psalm 146, as we explore the theme of total dependence on God. Psalm 146 recommends that we should have complete dependence on God. Believers ought to place their faith in God above all else.
So, what does it mean to have total dependence on God?
Total Dependence on God
Total dependence on God means fully trusting and relying on Him for everything in your life, rather than leaning on your own strength, knowledge, or abilities. It is an active choice to seek His guidance in decisions, find comfort in His promises, and rest in His control over all situations even when things are uncertain or difficult.
A few key actions and attitudes mark a life of dependence on God. These are trust in God’s sovereignty, surrender of control, turning to God daily, accepting His will, gratitude and worship.
Here’s what it looks like in practice:
4 Benefits of Total Dependence on God
1. Dependence on God is Trusting Beyond Human Understanding
Verse 3 warns, “Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save.” Relying on human strength or wisdom is ultimately futile. While people may mean well, their abilities are limited. When we place our trust in God, however, we tap into His infinite, enduring strength.
Similarly, Jeremiah 17:5 tells us, “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the Lord.” Rather than depending on human solutions, dependence on God means aligning your life with His will and seeking His guidance in all things.
Verse 3: Key Takeaways:
- Trust in God as the ultimate source of strength, not in human beings.
- Relying on God's wisdom helps us avoid pitfalls associated with limited human understanding.
- Building our lives on God's promises offers lasting peace and security.
2. Dependence on God Creates Hope Beyond Human Help
Verse 5 states, “Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God.” While people may assist us, human help is temporary. Only God’s help endures. Total dependence on God means that we look beyond people’s limitations and seek His eternal, sustaining presence.
Isaiah 40:31 encourages us, saying, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” We can experience a strength and grit that is only possible through God’s power, one that sustains us even in challenging times.
Verse 5: Key Takeaways:
- Human help is temporary; God’s support is eternal and reliable.
- Relying on God renews our strength, enabling us to overcome difficulties.
- True hope is in God, who brings blessings and He never fails.
3. Dependence on God brings His Provision and Blessings
The psalmist further goes on to describe the blessings that come from trusting in God. Verse 7 promises, “He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets prisoners free.”
God is wholly committed to meeting the needs of His people when they submit to Him. When we trust in God, we position ourselves to receive His blessings, protection, and provision (Matthew 6:26).
Verse 7: Key Takeaways:
- Trusting in God opens us to His abundant provision.
- God cares deeply for the vulnerable and supplies our needs.
- Depending on God grants us security in His constant blessings.
4. Dependence on God Enables the Vulnerable and Needy to Receive His Protection
God promises His care for the vulnerable in Verse 9: “The Lord watches over the foreigner and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.” Part of trusting in God means believing in His justice and love, for He has already assured us that he will protect those who are in need.
Deuteronomy 10:18 further tells us that God “defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow…” But this divine protection extends to those who rely on Him.
Verse 9: Key Takeaways:
- God protects and sustains those who are vulnerable.
- Trusting in God’s care frees us from worry, even in difficult times.
- Dependence on God means we trust in His justice to care for our needs.
Conclusion
Total dependence on God leads us to a life of peace, strength, and resilience. By trusting in God rather than people or our possessions, we discover God’s blessings that are found only in His presence.
Psalm 146 offers a powerful reminder of God’s promises. These include His help, provision, protection and hope for all who rely on Him. We should not only rely on God in moments of crisis. When we make Him our source of strength and our provider, we experience the fullness of His care and faithfulness in every season.
