My Grandad used to repeat the phrase “God helps those who help themselves.” When I was in high school, I always thought that statement did not reflect what the Bible taught. That phrase has morphed into a thousand versions, like Deepak Chopra’s “Centering yourself” mindset. It seems to be morphing into politics as well. But searching for God’s kingdom and His righteousness is a radical subversive surrender to the King of kings, presidents, prime ministers and dictators. It is leaving behind the self addicting dependence to illusions of power, possession, prestige, and pursuit of pleasure. Our Triune God will NEVER leave us or forsake us, no matter what life throws at us.
“Whether the lie comes from the serpent or a marketer, we are invited to chase: Chase love. Chase soothing. Chase acceptance. Chase achievement. Chase recognition. Chase numbness. Chase certainty. Chase perfection. I even have a little plastic card in my wallet with the words “Chase Freedom.” The reality is, it’s not a one-off addiction that we’re dealing with; it’s a whole way of living. We are immersed in an exhausting chase after those basic needs to feel safe, seen, soothed, and secure. The lie is that it’s out there, the fruit on a tree, the bonus in your checking account, the seductive glance of the person sitting across from you in the coffee shop, the adrenaline hit of a well-timed truth bomb on social media.” - Chuck DeGroat, Healing What’s Within
After 27 years of cruel mistreatment in South African prisons, Nelson Mandela said, “As I walked out the door to the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew that if I didn’t leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison.”
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