"Dependent" is defined as: contingent on another, subordinate, relying on or requiring the aid of another for support. "Dependence" is defined as: "the state of being dependent, as for support, trust, reliance; the state of being determined, influenced, or controlled by something else" (thefreedictionary.com). I am a total dependent, not upon my parents or the government, but upon Almighty God.

"O LORD, I know the way of man is not in himself; it is not in man who walks to direct his own steps" (Jer. 10:23). I recognize all too well that, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death" (Prov. 14:12). I cannot direct my own steps. It is not spiritually wise or safe to do so. I am totally dependent upon God to direct my steps.

I also realize that God's thoughts are not my thoughts, nor are my ways His ways (Is. 55:8). "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts" (Is. 55:9). Since my thoughts and ways are not to be relied upon, I am totally dependent upon God's thoughts and ways.

Solomon spoke of this total dependency upon God in Proverbs 3:5-8 when he wrote: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones." I must not trust in the LORD with part of my heart, but with ALL of my heart.

To be totally dependent upon God, I must hear and do explicitly as He instructs me in His inspired Word (Matt. 7:21, 24-27; 28:20; John 15:14; Col. 3:17; James 1:22-25; 1 John 5:3). I am a total dependent. Are you?