"Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified." Galatians 2:16 (NKJV)
My whole life, I remember being told, "Pray like it depends on God, but work like it depends on you." I think John Wesley originally said this, and my mom reiterated to our family many times. But I would like to humbly disagree---partially, at least.
To me, the statement is an oxymoron. If I'm praying like it depends on God, then I need to act like I believe He is big enough to handle it...exercising FAITH! I don't know about you, but when I'm acting like I believe God is who He says He is, and that He is capable of whatever I'm asking, that looks different than when I'm trying to "fix" things myself, like it depends on me. I feel sure He is capable of handling whatever I'm willing to give Him!
While I think I understand the premise for this statement---that we should actively pursue Christ through worship, prayer, study, service, and witness---I think the words are misleading. Yes, we should take responsibility for ourselves, but I confess that I try to take care of things myself far too often, taking matters into my own hands.
Are you trusting God with the big things and the little things? Are you really giving it all to Him, or are you praying to Him, but not believing Him to answer? I challenge you to seek Him and Him alone, not the solution to your problems; He's got that covered.
"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)
