Biblical Answer

The Loss of Independence: A Biblical Perspective

When we lose our independence, we are not just losing a physical or emotional state; we are losing our sense of self and our relationship with God. In the Bible, independence is not seen as a virtue, but rather as a danger to our being. In Exodus 3:14, God says, "I AM WHO I AM," indicating that His being is dependent on nothing and no one else. This is in contrast to humanity, which is "dependent at the center on a freedom which is not mine and which is the very condition of my being" (Leviticus 19:18). This dependence on God is not a weakness, but a strength, as it allows us to be free from the bondage of sin and to live a life that is pleasing to Him.

When we try to assert our independence, we are essentially saying that we do not need God or anyone else. This is a lie, and it will lead us down a path of darkness and isolation. The Bible warns us against this kind of thinking, saying, "Any steps toward isolation and independence are steps into darkness. Don't go there" (Proverbs 18:1). Instead, we are called to be humble and dependent on God, recognizing that our strength comes from Him and not from ourselves. This is seen in the life of the apostle Paul, who wrote, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (Philippians 4:13).

So, what happens when we lose our independence? We lose our sense of self and our relationship with God. We become like the grass that withers and fades away, but God remains the same (Hebrews 1:10-12). We are called to surrender ourselves to God, abandoning our self-awareness and allowing Him to be our all in all (1 Corinthians 6:20). This is not a loss of freedom, but a gain of true freedom, as we are freed from the bondage of sin and able to live a life that is pleasing to God. As the Bible says, "So shall your God rejoice over you" (Isaiah 62:35).