The Pulse: Dependent Responsibility
August 8, 2022

Jerry Bridges, in his book The Transforming Power of the Gospel, explores the part we play in spiritual growth and service. We strive with all the energy we can muster (Col. 1:29), and yet God is the One working in us to will and to act according to His purpose (Phil. 2:13). Bridges uses the term “dependent responsibility” to describe this seeming paradox in the life of a Christian. We have responsibility, but we are wholly and completely dependent on God to carry it out.

One of the ways we express our dependence on God is through prayer. Paul Miller said, “If you are not praying, then you are quietly confident that time, money, and talent are all you need in life.” Ouch! Far too often, if I’m honest, my daily routine is more characterized by prayerlessness than dependence.

Every Sunday morning, a group of faithful men and women gather to pray at GFC before the first service begins. They express our dependent responsibility as they lift up our church and community to God’s care and ask for His provision and guidance. As we launch into a new school year, consider joining this small gathering at either 8am or 8:30am this coming Sunday to be a part of what God is doing through prayer. Find out more details here.

Hope to see you this Friday at GFC’s Night of Worship! Another great opportunity to express collectively our need for God’s grace and our gratitude for what He’s done in Christ.

Grace and Peace,
Matt

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5