In our pursuit of spiritual growth, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that our own efforts can get us there. The Christian life can subtly shift from dependence on God to striving in our own strength, even while doing what appear to be good, godly things.
In a recent message, Rabbi Schneider shares a timely reminder rooted in Psalm 127 that offers both encouragement and correction for believers.
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“Unless the Lord builds the House, the laborer builds in vain.” This foundational Scripture sets the tone. Many of us are working hard — in ministry, in our families, in personal spiritual disciplines — but the question remains: is the Lord the one building, or are we laboring in our own strength?
Schneider warns, “Sometimes we can be deceived into trying to perfect ourselves merely through our own efforts. It’s important to put forth effort in our walk with God. Maintaining a walk with God takes effort. But sometimes we can be deceived into thinking that doing, ‘works of holiness’”’ is what causes us to expand spiritually. In reality, what causes us to expand spiritually is dependency upon the Lord.”
He emphasizes the truth that “God’s power is perfected in our weakness.”
When we recognize our limitations and lean fully on the Lord, something powerful happens: “As we depend on the Lord through life, this is what enlarges our soul and our capacity to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit.”
How often are you trying to do things out of your own strength instead of depending upon God? How often do those things sometimes end up being our focus instead of the One who made heaven and earth?
That’s why Rabbi Schneider reaffirms the full truth of Psalm 127:1 — “Unless the Lord is the one that’s building you up, everything that you’re doing is in vain,” and “Unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman is watching in vain.”
So what’s the solution Schneider gives for believers? Return to full dependence on God. “Continue to depend on God for everything in life, whether it’s your business, whether it’s your relationships, whether it’s your work, depend on God, because as you depend on Him, you know what’s going to happen.”
The promise is sure: “He is going to build your house. He’s going to build your life.”
When we shift from striving to surrender, we unlock a deeper, more authentic walk with God—one not built on appearances or personal effort, but on the unshakable foundation of His presence and power. True spiritual growth doesn’t come from doing more, but from trusting more.
As we lay down our need to control and invite Him to take the lead, we find that everything we truly need begins to fall into place. Let go of the burden to build your life alone. God is ready—not just to help—but to carry the full weight and bring lasting fruit from what once felt like empty labor.
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Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.
