The Arrogance Of Self-Autonomy
"…apart from me you can do nothing…" John 15:5c (KJV)
One of the core beliefs of secular humanists is that through science and reason they can conclude that their existence is independent from any divine creator. Consequently, they determine that they are the center and catalyst for civilization. Consider the following excerpt from their Manifesto:
“Humanism is a democratic and ethical life stance, which affirms that human beings have the right and responsibility to give meaning and shape to their own lives. It stands for the building of a more humane society through an ethics based on human and other natural values in the spirit of reason and free inquiry through human capabilities. It is not theistic, and it does not accept supernatural views of reality” (International Humanist and Ethical Union).
I submit to you that a deliberate declaration like this is a display of abject arrogance and self-autonomy. As devoted disciples of Christ, we unashamedly admit that apart from the Lord Jesus Christ we will not successfully accomplish anything. In God’s economy, independence of God is not only deceitful, but it will also leave you directionless. We need the Good Shepherd in our lives!
"All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way.” Isaiah 53:6a (KJV)
When we are independent of God's leadership, we poison all streams of relationships: personal, professional and public. If we don't heal, we will continue to hurt others and ourselves. Leadership apart from the Lord is always a losing proposition. When the Lord emphatically stated, "apart from me you can do nothing," nothing means nothing. Your prospect of success will be tossed in the sea of oblivion without the Captain of all souls at the helm of your life.
No sound or substantive relationships, proper perspectives or purposes, strength or stability, peace or prosperity are possible if you do not position the Lord Jesus Christ as your Leader. Leadership apart from the Lord is always a losing proposition. You will not receive accurate advice and answers, victory from vices, protection or power in your life. In addition, you cannot secure sanctification or satisfaction for the soul without the Lord’s leadership. It is essential that He enjoys the role of Shepherd in our lives! The Word of God reminds us that when the Lord is our Shepherd we shall not be deposited into deficiency.
"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want." Psalm 23:1 (KJV)
However, the arrogance of self-autonomy will always be associated and identified with a bad shepherd as oppose to the Good Shepherd. Abandon the advice of arrogance and sever yourself from self-autonomy. Look to the Lord and HE will lead you to streams that will refresh your heart and renew your soul.
I would like to leave you with a closing thought. In the sight of God, arrogance is an offensive display that suggests you are superior in every way. In order to realign your perspective, God will use adversity to remind you that you are only a piece of clay and the Lord of lords will have His way!
For the Glory of God,
PBKSR