For years, I took pride in being able to do things on my own.

I was strong.

I was independent.

I didn’t need anyone to help me.

“I’m not used to other people doing things for me,” I told my husband the other night when he picked up a piece of trash that I threw. I missed my target. “Just leave it. I’ll get it here in a second,” I told him.

“I don’t mind picking it up,” he said.

“I appreciate that, but I don’t need you to pick up after me. I’m used to taking care of things myself,” I said.

That’s when it hit me.

“I’m used to taking care of things myself.”

Why did it bother me so much to have my husband help me do something so simple?

Historically, that’s what I’ve always done, even something as simple as picking up a piece a piece of trash.

Have you been like me and taken pride in being able to do things yourself?

“I’m used to taking care of things myself.”

This is only a small example of a time when I needed to let others help me.

In 2013, I made the decision to get baptized. One of my baptism gifts was a devotional. Most days, it’s the first thing I read in the morning. After reading from it, I often journal about a scripture that speaks to me.

“Do everything in dependence on Me.” — GOD, from the Sept. 6 entry of Jesus Calling by Sarah Young.

“I’ve been let down by every man in my life, why would trusting God be any different?”

This was part of my baptism story, and at that time in my life, it was true.

Fast forward 8 years (coming up in November). My faith and trust in God has significantly increased. I’m so grateful for that! After all, His “deepest desire for us is to learn to depend on Him in every situation.”

Every now and then, I need a reminder that I don’t have to go through life alone, and I shouldn’t.

Today was that reminder for me. When I remain in constant contact with Him, He will help me produce the fruit I need to live a rich life.

“The desire to act independently – part from Me – springs from the root of pride.”

Are you doing everything in dependence on Him?

Aunt Bubba