is to realize that I am “Dependent.” Now that sounds like double talk, but let me explain. I am going to be dependent on something or someone, so I get to pick what that “something” is. It can be my wife, or kids, or friends, perhaps the government, or wealth. None of these things are “bad” in themselves, but they will let me down sooner or latter. If I a dependent upon Christ, then He will make me independent to serve Him. My house has power lines that come to it and supply me electricity, I am dependent upon the power company for that electricity, but that power enables me to do all kind of wonderful things. That is a constructive dependency, just as dependency upon Jesus is.

The best thing I’ve found so far to help me become independent (which I’m still working on) is to just practice not caring what other people think. This doesn’t mean you have to act like you don’t care what other people think, which can be a more difficult and risky practice, but just practice not caring what they think about who you are. Every time you catch yourself wondering what they’re thinking or worrying about their reactions or approval, just remind yourself that it doesn’t matter. This may sound overly simplistic, but it’s worked for me and I hope you find it helpful.