Exposing Self-Reliance

Proverbs 16:1-3, 9 NLT – 1 We can make our own plans, but the LORD gives the right answer. 2 People may be pure in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their motives. 3 Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed. ... 9 We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.

1.    God Never Intended you to Direct Your Own Steps

“A man’s heart deviseth his way...”

2.    Dependence On God

Psalm 37:23-24 NKJV – 23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, And He delights in his way. 24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; For the LORD upholds him with His hand.

James 1:2-4 NLT – 2 Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

3.    Illusion of Control

Proverbs 3:5-7 NLT – 5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. 6 Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. 7 Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn away from evil.

• God doesn’t forbid us from using our understanding.  He forbids us from making our understanding our foundation!

Hebrews 11:1 NLT – 1 Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.

Hebrews 11:6 NLT – 6 And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.

1Corinthians 3:6 KJV - I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.

4.    Trusting Ourselves More Than God

• Where have we stopped depending? 

1Peter 5:6-7 NLT – 6 So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.