Explore What You Rely On
To be self-sufficient is to not require outside aid, support, or interaction for survival. It is a primary intent of much of today’s Western culture. A internet search for “self-sufficient” produced 13.7 million matches.
Self-sufficiency is truly a big deal. And unfortunately it’s a prideful goal that produces a false sense of security.
Consider what the prophet Habakkuk said in referencing the Babylonians. He said that their “own strength is their god.”
Although we are far removed from the Babylonians in both time and culture, I suspect that our desire to be self-sufficient is not much different from this ancient empire’s self-reliance.
As we become more self-sufficient, we rely more and more on ourselves and less and less on others—including God. We begin to take pride in our own skills, abilities, and independence.
These become our strengths…and effectively, our god.
As for the Babylonians, their “god” of strength was insufficient to save them. Habakkuk later prophesizes Babylonia’s destruction, which history confirms.
[Read through the Bible with us this year. Today’s reading is Habakkuk 1-3, and today’s post is on Habakkuk 1:11.]
Learn more about all twelve of the Bible’s Minor Prophets in Peter’s book, Return to Me: 40 Prophetic Teachings about Unfaithfulness, Punishment, and Hope from the Minor Prophets
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.