Christianity Is Not a DIY Project

DIY- Do it yourself.  There is a sense of accomplishment that we feel when we do things on our own.  Sometimes though we can take this attitude too far.  This would be pride.  Pride comes in many forms and can look so appealing on the outside; but it is the root of all evil for a reason.  To be precise, pride would be defined as 'a feeling or deep pleasure or satisfaction derived from one's own achievements'. Knowing how 'good' we are at something should not be where we find our comfort-- or our joy!  We need to realize how weak we are.

"I am the vine; you are the branches.  If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." John 15:5

"Apart from me you can do NOTHING." God doesn't exaggerate, or else that would be lying; so when He says nothing, He means NOTHING.  Coming to God with "a broken and contrite heart" has to be our sacrifice (Psalm 51:17).  Not until we completely understand that we can do NONE of this life in our own strength- not until we rid ourselves of our pride, will we be able to listen fully to what God is trying to teach us.  It is humbling to think about how insignificant we are compared to God's greatness.  This should not discourage you, but encourage you- God has it ALL under control!

"But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'  Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 2:19 

Our lives are but a vapor. Sure, God can work through us- but only if we allow Him to.  He is the reason we are here; it's not because of anything we've done, nothing that we can do.  He doesn't love us because we are 'good'; because we aren't.  He's the Alpha, Omega, Beginning and the End, the King of Kings, the Prince of Peace, the Lamb- he came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.   He died so that you might find life.  He loves you and is calling you to Himself-- humble yourself and He will exalt you.  

"All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, 'God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'  Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time.  Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you."  1 Peter 5: 5b-7