One of the greatest hindrances to our growth, to fulfilling our purpose and renewing our passion is a mindset of independence. We were woefully inadequate and impotent when it came to saving ourselves. Only God could accomplish that. We are also woefully inadequate in our own strength to grow and serve God apart from Him. Jesus said that apart from Him we can do nothing. (John 15:5) So why is it that we seem to pride ourselves on our independence? What we need, individually and corporately, is ultradependence upon God. We need to move away from self-centered thinking and power, to a focus on the Holy Spirit and His enabling and empowering work. It is God that works in us to will and to do His Will. (Phil 2:13). So it behooves us to follow the leadership of His Spirit. But too often, rather than obediently following, we resist; and it is that resistance to the Holy Spirit that causes not growth, but spiritual atrophy. If we would grow and serve God, then we must listen to His voice and follow His direction, both individually and as a church.
