I spoke to you in your prosperity, but your said, "I will not hear." This has been your manner from your youth, that you did not obey My voice. Jeremiah 22:21
Since the Garden of Eden, humans' inclination is to be totally self-reliant. Prosperity often brings this upon us. We think that the blessings we enjoy are a result of our own abilities and resources. The Word of the Lord however, ask, "What do you have that you did not receive?" (1 Corinthians 4:7). Self sufficiency can be a destructive and deadly spiritual state.
There are many other concerns that may hinder us from hearing the Lord's voice. Even good and proper duties - the responsibilities of life - may press us to neglect fellowship with and dependence on our Lord Jesus. Luke 10:38-42 gives an account of Jesus' visit to Mary and Martha's house. Martha was diligent in preparing dinner for Jesus while Mary sat at Jesus' feet, listening to Him. Jesus told Martha that Mary had chosen the better part - spending time with Him! While the meal Martha prepared would soon be forgotten, Mary would forever be changed by her fellowship with Chirst. Dependence upon Him and union with Him are to be the cornerstone of our life.
May we be very aware today of our dependence upon the Lord, whatever the conditions we face. We need Him for everything, even as we need the air we breathe to survive. May God graciously grant you today the blessing of dependence, and prompt you to hear and obey His voice.
Heavenly Father, that You for Your great and wonderful care for me. It is so easy for me, especially when I prosper, to think that I have been the cause of all of the good things that have come my way. Remind me that every good and perfect gift is from Your hand, and keep me steadfast in my faith, allegiance, and dependence upon You. I pray in Jesus' name. Amen.
Dr. R. Philip Roberts, Kansas City, MO