Independence is the state of being independent. Independent means the following:
- not subject to control by others
- self-governing
- not affiliated with a larger controlling unit
- not requiring or relying on something else
- not looking to others for one’s opinions or for guidance in conduct
- not bound by or committed to a political party
- not requiring or relying on others (as for care or livelihood)
- being enough to free one from the necessity of working for a living
While the word independent has a good number of meanings, they are all basically the same and that is we are free. But are we really?
People like to think they are independent, but none of us truly are. Everyone one needs someone else to survive. An employee works for someone to earn a living. The CEO of a company needs the board to agree with them versus being replaced. The President needs our votes to get into office as do all politicians. All companies rely upon others for their existence and without the support of others, they go out of business.
Independence or freedom is an illusion. Granted, in American we are a little more free, but you are still serving someone or something. So each of us has a choice, let Jesus be your Lord and Savior or let the world be your master. Jesus said that he came to give us more abundant life.
John 10:10 New International Version (NIV)
10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
What has the world said/done for you? You have the choice to reject the idea that Christ came to give you more abundant life, but is the way you are currently living fulfilling? What has following the worlds system gotten you? I am sure that some of you are under the illusion that the worlds system has worked for you, but I really need you to analyze this and see if it is true. Has the world every let you down so you cannot trust it? I bet the answer is yes. Well God will not let you down.
Proverbs 3:5-6 New International Version (NIV)
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
6 in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.