What does the Bible say about self and reliance on God?

The Scriptures illustrate the importance of weaning ourselves from idolizing our own wisdom and strength. Psalm 131:2 uses the imagery of a weaned child, highlighting that just as a child must learn to be independent from the nurturing of its mother, so believers are called to detach from self-sufficiency. Self is often described as an idol, a competing deity within our hearts that must be dethroned to allow God to reign supremely. This process is essential for spiritual growth, as we come to realize our folly compared to God’s wisdom and strength. As we are weaned from self, we are led back to our original source of comfort and strength—God Himself.