Reliance on God: Finding Strength and Purpose in Dependence

In John 15:1-5, Jesus paints a powerful image of our dependence on Him, saying, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit, He takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit, He prunes, that it may bear more fruit… Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me, you can do nothing.”

This scripture calls us to live in full reliance on God . It’s a humbling reminder that without Him, we can do nothing of eternal value. In today’s world, where self-sufficiency is often glorified, this truth challenges us to live differently. Reliance on God is not a sign of weakness but of strength, purpose, and fruitfulness. It’s about finding our identity and meaning in Him.

The essence of a fruitless life is one lived without reliance on God. While we may experience moments of excitement or temporary success, true fulfillment comes from abiding in Him. As the branches need the vine, we need God to bear fruit in our lives. Without Him, even our greatest efforts are like “placebo pills”—empty and without lasting impact.

Living a life of reliance on God means acknowledging that we are dependent on Him for everything—our strength, wisdom, and purpose. It’s like being a subordinate clause that cannot stand alone. True fulfillment comes when we lean on God for guidance, sustenance, and direction.

For single adults, reliance on God is not just an option but a necessity. The single life, whether one is dating, engaged, or raising children, comes with a variety of experiences. Unlike a married person, who might turn to a spouse for support, single individuals often find themselves relying on friends, family, or mentors for comfort and celebration. But even with these valuable relationships, there’s no substitute for turning to God first.

God calls us to find our completeness in Him, regardless of our relationship status. Singleness offers a unique opportunity to grow in reliance on God because there is no earthly partner to lean on for constant support. This season of life can be one of deep spiritual growth as you learn to trust God fully and rely on His presence in every situation.

No matter what life throws at us—whether it’s a promotion, a difficult conversation, a tragedy, or a celebration—the instinct is to share it with someone. For married individuals, that might be their spouse. For singles, it could be a close friend or family member. But ultimately, the best choice for processing both joy and hardship is to lean on God.

Paul’s words in Philippians 4:11 are a profound reminder: “Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have.” Contentment is born out of reliance on God. In every season, whether we are celebrating or suffering, God is there to walk with us.

James 5:13-16 encourages us to turn to God in prayer during times of trouble or joy: “Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.” Whether we’re in a moment of struggle or celebration, reliance on God allows us to experience His peace and joy.

As single adults, feeling alone in both the high and low moments of life is easy. But we are never truly alone. God, the Creator of the universe, is always with us, ready to support and guide us. He waits for us to lean on Him, whether we feel strong or weak, full or hungry, awake or asleep.

Reliance on God is not just for the hard times but for every moment of life. By cultivating a life of dependence on Him, we experience the fullness of His love, wisdom, and grace. When we lean on God, we are no longer living in our own strength but in His, allowing us to bear fruit and fulfill our purpose in Him.

Embracing reliance on God brings a strength and purpose that nothing else can. It leads to a life of true contentment, where we are connected to the Vine and bear much fruit. Whether single or married, we can find everything we need in our dependence on Him in moments of joy or sorrow.