How Much I Need from God

I think I need God for very little because I seem to be able to do most things on my own—eat, sleep, shop, meal plan, settle arguments, keep up relationships, google questions, go to the dentist, etc.
I actually need God's help for nearly everything I do. In fact, that little white portion at the bottom of the graph probably doesn't exist at all. Sure, I can physically do a lot on my own, but I can't do anything with a pure heart nor out of love for everyone else on planet earth. Hence, I need God's wisdom in everything. I don't know how my purchases will hurt the environment. I don't know how my splurges will affect the poor. I don't know how my voting will alter the course of history. I don't know how the words I choose will affect another's heart. There is just so much that I don't know. 

If God offers me everything I need—all wisdom, power, and love—through a relationship with him (this is not an instantaneous acquisition but a daily communion), I can have all I need, if I remain in communication with him. Not only that but I have to receive what he has to offer. I can't accept what he has to offer, if I don't think I need it. In fact if I only think I need God for difficult relationships and sudden car trouble and money issues, I shall accept very little from him.

It's like coming to a fountain to get water. If I bring a tiny vase, I shall only take home a vase-sized amount of water. If I bring a bucket, I will take home a bucket. And if I come with a totally empty-self, I will receive a whole-person's worth of living water.

Comments

Patty said…
Love your illustrations - really makes it clear to me!