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A faith-filled devotional about using the mind God gave you, growing in independence, trusting God’s guidance, and not relying on others for every decision.
One thing I truly thank God for is the ability to think for myself. That is one of the greatest blessings God has given us—our own mind. God did not create us to depend on other people for every decision, every move, or every step we take in life. He created us with the ability to think, reason, learn, and grow.
Yes, when we are children, our parents have to do things for us. They guide us, teach us, protect us, and show us what to do. But at the same time, they are also teaching us how to think on our own. They are preparing us for the day when we will have to stand on our own two feet and make decisions for ourselves.
As we grow older, we should already have some understanding of what to do and how to do it. We should be able to use the mind God has given us to get things done without waiting on someone else to instruct us on every move.
Learning Independence as We Grow
As children, responsibility is taught little by little. We learn how to clean up after ourselves, follow instructions, and handle simple tasks. Over time, those lessons are meant to build confidence and independence.
Growth requires learning how to think and act on our own. That doesn’t mean we won’t ever need help—it just means we shouldn’t rely on others for every single decision.
There comes a point where waiting for someone else to tell you what to do keeps you stuck instead of helping you grow.
God Created You to Think for Yourself
God did not create us to be mindless followers. He created us with wisdom, understanding, and the ability to make choices.
“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”
— 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)
A sound mind means a healthy, stable, thinking mind. God gave that to us, and He expects us to use it.
I’ve noticed that some people feel uncomfortable making decisions on their own. They constantly look for approval. They wait for someone else to tell them what to do, how to do it, and when to do it. And when that person isn’t available, they feel lost or unsure.
That’s not how God wants us to live.
Help Is Good—Dependence Is Not
Let me be clear—there is nothing wrong with getting help. We all need help at times. God places people in our lives to encourage us, teach us, and support us. Parents, pastors, spouses, friends, and teachers all play important roles.
But there is a difference between receiving help and depending on someone to think for you.
You should not have to wait for your spouse, parents, friends, or anyone else to tell you what to do every step of the way. At some point, you have to take responsibility for your own decisions.
If the people you rely on are not there, you shouldn’t fall apart. God wants you to be able to stand, think, and move forward with confidence.
Depending Too Much on People Can Be Dangerous
People may mean well, but they don’t always know what God is telling you. Sometimes advice comes from personal opinions, fear, or past experiences—not from God.
That’s why we have to be careful not to depend on people more than we depend on God.
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”
— Proverbs 3:5 (KJV)
This verse reminds us where our trust should be placed—first in God.
Go to God First
I’ve learned that before I go to people, I need to go to God first. God created me. He knows me better than anyone else. He knows what I can handle and what I need.
When I go to God first, He helps me think clearly. He brings peace instead of confusion. Then, if I still need confirmation or guidance, I can go to others—but God comes first.
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God.”
— James 1:5 (KJV)
God gives wisdom freely. We just have to ask.
Breaking the Habit of Waiting on Others
If you are someone who always waits for others to tell you what to do, pause for a moment. Take a deep breath and remind yourself that God has already equipped you.
You don’t need permission for every step.
You don’t need approval for every idea.
You don’t need someone holding your hand for everything.
God has already given you what you need to move forward.
Confidence Comes With Practice
Confidence doesn’t come overnight. It comes with practice. The more you make decisions on your own, the more confident you become.
Yes, you may make mistakes—and that’s okay. Mistakes are part of learning and growing.
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.”
— Psalm 37:23 (KJV)
Even when we stumble, God is still ordering our steps.
Encouragement for You
If you’ve been relying too heavily on others, this is not a message of condemnation—it’s a message of encouragement.
You can grow.
You can learn.
You can think.
You can make wise decisions.
God has already equipped you.
Start small. Pray first. Think through situations. Ask God for wisdom. Then move forward in faith.
More Encouragement & Prayer Support
If this message encouraged you, you can find more faith-filled content in my Encouragement Corner, where I share messages to strengthen your walk with God.
If you’re looking for prayer and devotional support, visit the Prayers & Devotionals page for Scripture-based prayers and reflections to help you stay encouraged and spiritually grounded.
Reflection Questions
- Do you rely on others too much to make decisions for you?
- Are there areas where God is calling you to think and act independently?
- How can you grow in confidence while trusting God’s guidance?
Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for blessing me with a mind to think and wisdom to grow. Help me not rely on others more than I rely on You. Teach me to seek You first, think clearly, and make decisions that honor You. When I need help, remind me it’s okay to ask—but also help me stand strong in the wisdom You’ve given me. Guide my thoughts, my choices, and my steps each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
By Ty | Encouraged by Faith 🤍