10 signs of “incomplete” dependence on God

Having a complete dependence on God is what we need to rejoice amidst trials and persevere during hardships. But, have you ever asked yourself if you rely entirely on God’s will and ways?

Whenever we are under trial or facing the consequences of our wrong decisions, I often hear people say, “Just Trust God,” yet maybe we also have to evaluate ourselves if we are in complete surrender to God and not just doing our ways even if our mouth says we rely on Him.

In this blog, let us explore some signs of having an incomplete dependence on God so that we can be enlightened and renewed. Also, we will discuss some practical ways to develop our complete trust in Him.

10 signs of “incomplete” dependence on God

In our faith journey, complete dependence on God is a critical step. However, it's not uncommon to discover that our reliance on Him is partial. Recognizing the signs of this “incomplete” dependence can help us grow closer to God. 

Recognizing these ten signs can indicate areas where you need to deepen your faith and trust in God.

1. Worry and anxiety overwhelm you

When you're constantly troubled by the future, it's a sign you might not fully trust God’s sovereignty. Worry and anxiety often come when we try to take control of situations that are beyond our understanding or ability. Trusting in God involves handing over these worries to Him, believing He will provide and care for us in His perfect way and timing.

2. You make decisions without praying

Making decisions without seeking God's guidance in prayer can indicate self-reliance rather than dependence on God. Prayer is a powerful tool for discernment, providing clarity and peace in decision-making. By not praying, you might miss the wisdom and direction that God wants to impart in your life.

3. Lack of peace in your heart

Constantly unrest or agitation can signify a disconnect from God's assurances. True peace comes from understanding and relying on God’s promises, even in challenging times. If your heart is troubled, it might be a cue to reassess your trust in God’s plan and covenants.

4. Ignoring God’s word

Neglecting the Bible suggests a disconnection from God’s voice and guidance. The Scriptures are a primary way God speaks to us, offering wisdom, correction, and encouragement. Neglecting the Bible can result in relying on one’s understanding instead of God’s truth.

5. Fear of the unknown

Excessive fear about the future indicates a lack of trust in God's plan and protection. While feeling uncertain about what lies ahead is natural, a pervasive fear can overshadow the faith that God is in control and working everything for our good.

6. Reliance on personal strength

Overconfidence in one's abilities and a refusal to acknowledge one’s limitations can indicate a lack of dependence on God. True strength is found in acknowledging our weakness and relying on God's power, which is perfected in our weakness.

7. Neglecting fellowship

Avoiding engagement with other believers can signify self-sufficiency and a lack of desire to grow spiritually. Fellowship is crucial for encouragement, accountability, and spiritual growth. Isolating oneself can lead to a weakened faith and missed opportunities for support and development in a community.

8. Living in resentment

Struggling to forgive others might reflect an incomplete understanding of God's grace. Forgiveness is fundamental to the Christian faith, reflecting our experience of God's forgiveness. While God understands your pain, clinging to bitterness and resentment can hinder your relationship with God and others.

9. Spiritual indifference

A lack of interest or enthusiasm in spiritual matters can signify a disconnection from God’s purpose in your life. This indifference often leads to a stagnant faith, missing out on the joy and fulfillment of a vibrant relationship with God.

10. Persistent sinning without repentance

Continually engaging in sin without remorse or a desire to change suggests disregarding God’s holiness and authority. Repentance is critical to a healthy relationship with God, as it acknowledges His right to rule our lives and our need for His grace to transform us.

How to completely dependent on God

In a world that often encourages self-reliance and independence, entirely depending on God can seem counterintuitive. 

Yet, for believers, this dependence is not a sign of weakness but a source of strength, peace, and fulfillment. Here are ways to cultivate a life of complete dependence on God.

1. Cultivate a deep prayer life: Prayer is the lifeline of your relationship with God. It's where you communicate your fears, desires, and confessions and listen to what God says. 

To depend on God entirely, make prayer a daily habit. It doesn’t have to be formal or lengthy but should be heartfelt and genuine. Remember, in every good or bad situation, turn to prayer first.

2. Immerse yourself in the word: The Bible is not just a book; it's the living word of God. It provides guidance, comfort, correction, and encouragement. You align your thoughts and actions with God's will by reading, meditating, and applying the Bible's teachings. This alignment is crucial to depending on God, as it helps you understand His character and promises.

3. Trust God in all circumstances: Trusting God entirely means believing He is in control and has your best interests at heart, even when circumstances seem bleak. It involves releasing the need to comprehend everything and relying on God’s understanding. When faced with decisions or challenges, seek God’s guidance and be willing to follow His lead, even if it doesn’t make sense.

4. Foster a heart of gratitude: Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to the abundance God has provided. Regularly count your blessings and thank God for His provision and care. This attitude of gratitude nurtures a deep sense of contentment and trust in God, regardless of your external circumstances.

5. Live in obedience to God: Obedience clearly indicates dependence. It shows that you trust God’s commands and are willing to submit to His authority. It means making choices that align with biblical teachings and seeking to please God in all areas of life.

6. Embrace community and fellowship: Dependence on God doesn’t mean you isolate yourself. God frequently works through other people to offer support, wisdom, and encouragement. Regularly participate in church and small groups, sharing your journey with fellow believers.

7. Recognize Your limitations and God’s omnipotence: Understanding that you are not all-knowing or all-powerful and accepting your limitations is a step towards relying on God. It’s in acknowledging your weaknesses that God’s strength is made perfect. Depend on Him for strength, wisdom, and guidance in all your endeavors.

8. Practice humility: Humility is the foundation of dependence. It involves recognizing that God is the ultimate source of all wisdom, power, and authority. Humility paves the way for a life marked by prayer, obedience, and trust in God's timing and plans.

9. Learn to wait on God: Dependence on God means trusting in His timing. God's timing is always perfect but often doesn’t align with our immediate desires. Learn to wait patiently for God’s answers to prayers and His direction, knowing He works all things together for good.

10. Reflect on God’s faithfulness: Regularly remind yourself of the times when God has been faithful in your life. This reflection strengthens your faith and trust in His future faithfulness. Maintaining a journal of answered prayers and God’s blessings can serve as a practical way to achieve this.

Entirely depending on God is a journey, not a one-time decision. It involves daily choices and attitudes that foster trust and obedience. As you grow in your dependence on God, you’ll experience a more profound sense of peace, purpose, and joy in your walk with Him. Remember, the key to a fulfilling Christian life lies not in self-reliance but in complete reliance on God.