In Christ Alone

Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. I Corinthians 11:1 (King James Version)

Paul penned these words to the converts in Corinth, Ephesus, and Thessalonica. His goal was not to have people ultimately follow him but to point them to the One who could be their Savior, Deliverer, Healer, Friend, Comforter, and Companion….Jesus Christ. Paul set an example for them to follow which would eventually lead them into an intimate relationship with God through Christ. Today, we have many people in ministry who would voice his same words to new believers as well. People are being used of God to mentor and encourage young believers in their faith until they reach a point whereby they are completely reliant upon God and able to then become an encourager to someone else. It is a precious system God has used and honored many times.

I have been the recipient of such encouragers. For over three decades I have been blessed by several significant relationships that had the flavor of Paul’s words. God graciously brought women into my life who saw something in me that needed to be nurtured and cultivated. Out of love they invested themselves into my life. I would not be the person I am today without their influence. If that were the entire picture all would be well in my corner of the world. Unfortunately what they never fully saw and what I never fully understood was an un-addressed issue in my life.

My area of struggle had to do with emotional dependency (also known as soul ties and relational idolatry). This is the case of one who looks to people and relationships to receive a sense of love, acceptance, significance, identity, and attention. All deep needs are directed toward the significant person who becomes their HOPE of getting those needs met. The relationship is for the sole purpose of survival. While I knew something was not right in the way I related to and looked to the significant people in my life I was clueless as to why I did it and how I could be free from it!

I was forced to take a hard look at this issue when a mentoring relationship abruptly ended a year and a half ago. As I found myself recently heading into yet another dependency driven relationship, I became desperate for not only release from pain and captivity, but to experience God as my true Source for the meeting of all needs. When that became the cry of my heart, He graciously led me to freedom which is only found in Himself!

Some who do not struggle with this issue, might read what I have written and wonder what the big deal is. But to any who are in the stronghold of emotional dependency, I pray my words offer you the hope that freedom is available and possible for YOU! The two resources God used to show me my bondage and way to freedom were EMOTIONAL DEPENDENCY by Lori Rentzel and PLEASE DON’T SAY YOU NEED ME by Jan Silvious. To God be the glory for the writing of both and the effect they have had on my life. It is now my sincere desire to help point others to the only One who can and will set them free. That One is Jesus Christ!

Father, I cannot find the words to thank you fully for all You have done! I am free and I can’t get over the wonder of it! I praise You! Amen.