Independent Living

We live in a time when a growing number of people are accepting dependence on the federal government as a natural part of their existence.  For many, it no longer a temporary setback, which causes some embarrassment and a strong desire to get back on one's feet - it is rather a benefit they have come to expect as both a right and something that is right. 

From the viewpoint of those who want to provide more opportunity for individuals to receive federal assistance, it is seen as a matter of compassion as we share the corporate abundance with those who have less. And I agree that we need to provide for those unable to provide for themselves, but there is a line where we keep people from rising out of this dependency and deny them the full life God intends - a life of giving as well as receiving. 

Jesus tells us to "bear each other's burdens" (Gal 6:2), but at the same time he says, "each one should carry their own load" (Gal 6:5).  The message is that we should live independent lives until and unless someone is overloaded with burdens requiring help that we freely offer. This help, however, is not meant to be forever and always, only for as long as truly needed - to bridge the gap, so to speak. For some, the need will be forever due to special needs but for most, it should help them back onto their own feet. 

Listen to what The Lord calls us to: "You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody" (1 Thess 4:11, 12).  

We would be better and the federal government more helpful if we were looking for ways to create more opportunities instead of more handouts. 

Jus' Sayn.