Self-reliance is the opposite of dependence on the Holy Spirit’s power for sanctification. Just as by nature we assume we earn our salvation by our good works, so by nature we assume we grow spiritually by our own effort and willpower. What’s wrong with this kind of self-reliance? Everything. First of all, it doesn’t work. The Christian life is a spiritual life lived in a spiritual world. Our human strength, be it physical power or willpower, is inadequate. We need divine strength that comes from a