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Responsibility

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."¹

I was recently criticized for suggesting that I wanted Jesus to be my co-pilot. I was informed that Jesus is to be our pilot.

I know that sounds impressive. However, in the Christian life it is sometimes difficult to discern how much God does for us and how much we need to do for ourselves. One thing is certain, God will do for us what we are unable to do for ourselves, but He will not do for us what we are able to do and need to do ourselves. If He did, He would be being codependent and that would keep us overdependent, irresponsible and immature.

God has promised to give us wisdom if we ask for it, guidance if we seek it, and be with us wherever we go if we ask Him to—providing we stay within the limits of His guidelines and boundaries. The fact is, however, that we are always responsible for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are in charge of our life.

Doing our part is accepting personal responsibility. As I do this, I can rest assured God will do His part. We will sit and wait for a long time if we expect otherwise. God isn't codependent.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, help me to act responsibly in everything I do and always look to You for wisdom, guidance and direction. Thank You for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully in Jesus's name, amen."

1. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV).

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