Self Sufficiency

We are hard wired to trust in ourselves. Self-sufficiency and self-confidence are traits that are admired and even desired in our careers. It seems so natural to embrace these traits. Yet self-sufficiency causes us to think that we can do what needs to be done in our own strength and abilities. Can we? 

When we operate in our own abilities, we are basically saying with our actions that we don’t need God. Why don’t people pray more? How much of our work is characterized by “going it alone?”

I was studying about self-sufficiency and what God thought about it in the Bible this week. (Judges 6-7) God had enlisted Gideon to lead Israel’s army against their enemy. But God knew this human tendency of ours and sought to help Gideon learn a powerful lesson. He didn’t want Israel to think they were victorious on their own strength! So, He devised a massive lay off. He reduced Gideon’s army resources from 32,000 men to 300! With such a small force, who do you think won the battle? (Check out Judges 7:1-25)

Gideon got God’s drift. God can supernaturally make things happen with a massive reduction in men. Why? Because God is God! When we’re smooth sailing and have resources at our fingertips, it can actually keep us from placing our full dependence on God. Can you imagine what God could do in your life and work if you fully trusted Him?

I just had a big birthday. So, I’ve been around a while. I can honestly say that I need God more than ever!!!  I need His wisdom, His strength, His guidance, His love, and His leadership in the daily-ness of my life. Whatever you’re going through-relationship conflicts, unrealistic work goals, deep longings, family challenges, stressors or fears about the future- God is sufficient and able to help you and more! Will you trust Him?

Prayer for today: Dear Father in Heaven, How do I trust in my own abilities more than you? How have I lived like I don’t need you? I know that the Bible says I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me, but sometimes I forget that it’s YOU who strengthens me. Lord, be real to me today. Help me, like Gideon, to learn to place my full confidence in you. Give me a vision of what my life could be like as I fully trust in you. Amen.

“Don’t count on your warhorse to give you victory- for all its strength, it cannot save you. But the Lord watches over those who fear him, those who rely on his unfailing love.” Psalm 33:16-18 (NLT)

“Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God,” 2 Corinthians 3:5 (ESV)

Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.