Day 27 – Living Boldly: Self-Sufficient Life Is a Myth

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Learning to overcome our all-time and number one problem and the cultural myth of self-reliance is vital for a robust Christian life. Self-sufficiency is a synonym for unbelief, choosing to rely on ourselves instead of the Lord. The truth is that no one can live completely independent of God—not even Jesus lived that way.

Rick’s 31-Day Devotions

• 31-Day Marriage Devotion
• 31-Day Parenting Devotion
• 31-Day Young Adult Devotion

For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead (2 Corinthians 1:8-9).

The Illusion of Self-Sufficiency

A self-reliant person lives in a fantasy world, imagining he can be in control without help from others. This mindset is isolating and deceiving. It projects an image of strength, but in reality, it reveals weakness and arrogance. Weakness because we’re finite and arrogance because only a fool chooses self-reliance. Even Jesus resisted self-sufficiency. He chose to humble Himself to God’s will, saying, “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 6:38). If the perfect Son of God acknowledged His dependence on the Father, how much more should we?

The Danger of Self-Reliance

Self-sufficiency is rooted in pride—a desire to avoid trusting God or accepting help from others. It’s an attempt to control life on one’s own terms. This mindset leads to relational complexities. God designed us to be dependent on Him and interdependent with each other. Pretending to be self-sufficient is a form of insanity. It denies the reality of our brokenness and our need for help. Apart from Him, we cannot do anything (John 15:5).

God-Dependency Is the Truth

Whether you admit it or not, you are dependent on God for every breath, every opportunity, and every ounce of strength. Recognizing this truth is the first step toward living a life of humility and freedom, which is found in relying on Him, who raises the dead. The world promotes self-reliance as a path to greatness, but true success is found in surrendering to God and allowing Him to guide and sustain you.

Time to Reflect

1. What specific ways do you struggle with self-reliance?
   1. Do you resist asking for help when you need it?
   2. Do you sense the need to appear strong and in control before others?
   3. Are you hesitant to trust God fully with your decisions and future?
2. What is your practical plan to overcome this anti-God sin pattern? Here are a few suggestions.
   1. Pray for Humility: Ask God to help you see your need for Him and to give you a dependent heart.
   2. Seek Wise Counsel: Surround yourself with people who encourage you to trust God and lean on others.
   3. Take Small Steps: Ask for help when you struggle. Trust God to work through your relationships.
   4. Study Jesus’ Example: Reflect on John 6:38 to understand how Jesus depended on the Father.
3. Living a God-dependent life isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a reflection of wisdom. Recognizing your need for God and others frees you to experience His grace and strength in every area of life.

Let’s live boldly, letting go of the illusion of self-sufficiency and embracing the truth that God is our ultimate source of strength and provision.

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Rick Thomas

Rick launched the Life Over Coffee global training network in 2008 to bring hope and help for you and others by creating resources that spark conversations for transformation. His primary responsibilities are resource creation and leadership development, which he does through speaking, writing, podcasting, and educating.

In 1990 he earned a BA in Theology and, in 1991, a BS in Education. In 1993, he received his ordination into Christian ministry, and in 2000 he graduated with an MA in Counseling from The Master’s University. In 2006 he was recognized as a Fellow of the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC).