Self-Salvation & Self-Reliance
There’s something powerful about taking responsibility, pushing forward, and working hard to fix your life — but sometimes that inner drive can shift from diligence to dependence on yourself instead of God. Self-reliance and the idea that you must save yourself — spiritually, emotionally, or practically — can leave you exhausted, anxious, or worn down by trying to carry burdens God never meant for you to shoulder alone. When you rely primarily on your own strength, wisdom, or plans, you miss out on the peace that comes from trusting in the One who holds you.
Spiritually, self-salvation and self-reliance subtly shift your trust from God to your own efforts. You may find yourself trying to earn acceptance, reconcile your mistakes on your own terms, or build a life where nothing ever breaks or hurts — but this approach ultimately leads to burnout instead of freedom. The gospel doesn’t call you to self-fixing; it calls you to rest in Jesus, who saves you by grace through faith, carries your burdens, and invites you to walk with Him. In Him, you discover a strength that doesn’t depend on your performance but on His faithfulness.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.
— EPHESIANS 2:8–9
Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.
— GALATIANS 2:16
Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;
— TITUS 3:5
Resources to Help Understand Salvation & Dependance on God
Can I Focus Too Much on Myself for Assurance of Salvation?
A Desiring God interview with John Piper about whether focusing too much on ourselves can undermine assurance of salvation and…
Grace
A BibleProject video exploring what it means for God to be gracious, looking at the biblical concept of grace and…
What is the Definition of Grace? (According to Scripture)
A BibleProject article explaining the biblical meaning of God’s grace as His generous, undeserved favor and goodness toward humanity.
Explore Practices That Shape the Heart
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An Invitation to Join Us @ Sonrise
At Sonrise Church, we believe real life change happens when people encounter Jesus, walk in truth, and grow together in community. You are welcome here—no matter your past, your struggles, or where you’re starting from. Join us this Sunday to take your next step toward freedom and formation with us. Jesus changes everything.
Sonrise Church
Service Times:
- Sunday : 9:00 AM (1st Service)
- Sunday : 10:40 AM (2nd Service)
At Sonrise Church in Santee, CA, we understand how tempting it can be to rely on yourself — to try to save your relationships, your reputation, or your sense of worth without help. In East County San Diego, many people wrestle with the pressure to perform, earn acceptance, and control outcomes on their own. Sonrise Church offers compassionate teaching and community rooted in Scripture that helps you move from self-reliance toward resting in God’s grace, strength, and companionship.
In Santee, El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lakeside, our church family gathers to encourage one another in letting go of the burden of self-fixing and embracing the life Jesus offers — a life marked by trust, surrender, and peace that doesn’t depend on you having all the answers. Jesus invites you into a relationship where you’re cared for, not critiqued; carried, not controlled by fear or performance. If you’re longing for freedom from trying to save yourself and want to grow in trusting God’s provision and grace, Sonrise Church in East County San Diego is a place to take your next steps with others on the same faith journey.
Come discover how the gospel reshapes your heart toward trust, rest, and reliance on Christ alone.