Biblical Answer

The Dilemma of Independence

The concept of independence can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, independence can be a positive trait, allowing individuals to make their own choices and decisions without external influence. However, when taken to an extreme, independence can lead to isolation and a lack of reliance on others, including God. The Bible warns against the dangers of independence, stating that "any steps toward isolation and independence are steps into darkness" (emphasis mine).

The Call to Surrender

In order to regain our independence in a meaningful way, we must be willing to surrender to Jesus Christ. This surrender is not a one-time event, but rather a continuous process of letting go of our own understanding of ourselves and our circumstances. As we surrender, we must be willing to let God make our choices for us, even if it means giving up our own desires and plans. The Bible promises that when we surrender, God will rejoice over us (Isa. 62:35) and provide for us in ways we never thought possible. Jesus Himself promises to be "totally sufficient" for us, regardless of our circumstances (2 Cor. 12:9; Phil. 4:19).

The Freedom of Surrender

So, will we ever regain our independence? The answer is yes, but not in the way we might think. When we surrender to Jesus Christ, we gain a freedom that is far greater than any earthly concept of independence. We are free to live a life that is fully surrendered to God, free from the burdens of our own self-awareness and self-reliance. As we walk in this freedom, we will experience the joys of a life fully surrendered to God, and we will be amazed at the ways in which God provides for us and guides us. So, will we give up? Will we surrender to Jesus Christ, placing no conditions whatsoever as to how the brokenness will come? If so, we will find that true independence is not about doing what we want, but about trusting in God's sovereignty and provision.