I. We are Independent from the rule of sin when we are dependent upon Christ
11 For both he that sanctifies and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren,
A. We are Free when we have the Word change (reprogram) our mind, will, emotions and actions
John 8:31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If you continue in my word, then are you my disciples
indeed; 32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
Rom 6:6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we
should not serve sin. 11 Likewise reckon yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
B. We are Free when we purposefully (TOYL) obey the Spirit of God rather than our desires
Gal 5:13 brethren, you have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. 14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; You shall love your neighbor as thyself. 16 Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
II. We are Dependent upon God when we pray like Christ
12 Saying, I will declare your name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto you.
Ps 22:22 I will declare your name unto my brethren: in the midst of the congregation will I praise you.
A. Focus on the Person, Power, Purpose (Praise), and Past Acts of God (in your life and others’ lives Ps 22:3-5, 10)
B. Make a daily Declaration of Dependence as you pray through your To Do list. (Pour, Recog, Align, Yield -Mt26:39)
Heb 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
III. We are Dependent upon God when we Trust even though we can’t See
13a And again, I will put my trust in him. {Heb 11:1, 6}
Isa 8:17 And I will wait upon/trust in the LORD, that hides his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him.
A. Don’t doubt in the dark what you’ve Learned in the Light
Phil 4:13 I can do all things thou Christ who strengthens me. 19 my God shall supply all your need acc. to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 2Co 12:9 And he said to me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness… {Heb 13:21}
B. Seek Him more than His Provision as you wait for His Perfect Timing
Jn 15:7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, you shall ask what you will, and it shall be done unto you.
IV. We are Dependent upon God when we Live in Response to His Revelation (worship)
13b And again, Behold I and the children which God has given me.
A. Live in Expectation of Judgment and Hope of Reward (Quick to the plunder & Remnant shall return) {2Cor 5:10}
Isa 8:18 Behold, I and the children whom the LORD has given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwells in mount Zion.
B. Live in Fear of God rather than Fear of Man {Ecc 12:13; 2Cor 7:1; Eph 5:21; Heb 12:28; Ac 9:31; Phil 2:12; 1Pt 2:17}
Isa 8:11 For the LORD spoke thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk in the way of this people 12…neither fear you their fear, nor be afraid. 13 Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread. {cf. Gal 1:10; Matt 10:28}
Questions for Reflection/Discussion/Response:
1. T or F: There is no freedom without responsibility, choice without consequence, nor liberty without self-mastery.
2. Why do people have difficulty depending on God? What are some solutions to those difficulties?
3. Why does God answer prayer? Why wouldn’t God answer prayer? Are you in a position for God to bless you?
4. What are some benefits of fearing God? Are there any negative aspects to fearing Him and His future judgment?
5. Is there any reason (other than sin) why you can’t make a Declaration of Dependence upon God each morning this week? |
