The New Oxford American Dictionary defines self-sufficiency in this way: “needing no outside help in satisfying one's basic needs, especially with regard to the production of food.” For example, to be truly self-sufficient means you have no need of any grocery store or restaurant or pizza delivery driver. To be hyper-self-sufficient would mean never needing a power company for electricity, no department store for clothing, and no mechanic for your broken down car; all of your needs are entirely met by yourself.
God, on the other hand, who is not like us, is thoroughly and completely self-sufficient in and of Himself. In 2 Samuel 7:1-7, David wants to build a house for God to dwell in. God, in rebuking David says, “Did I speak a word…saying, ‘Why have you not built me a house of cedar?’” This is echoed in Acts 7:48, “The Most High does not dwell in houses made by hands."
Understand, that even if we possessed something that could serve God—which we don’t—He has no need of it (Acts 17:25). Some might say, “God needs our worship of Him! He needs us to preach for Him.” However, this is poor and misguided theology. Sound doctrine teaches that God, by His grace, saves us on the basis of nothing but faith alone in the completed work and person of Jesus Christ. He appoints those that He has mercifully saved, to service in His Kingdom, to preach the Gospel (Mathew 28:19, 1 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 2:11), and to live a life of worship and holiness (Romans 12:1-2). Make no mistake, God does not need anything from us. He gives life to all things (1 Timothy 6:13). He is the Creator of all things (John 1:3). He holds all things together (Colossians 1:17). He needs nothing.
In fact, contrary to our small human thinking, we are told by His Word that the Son of God came to serve us (Mark 10:45) This is remarkable! The Second person of the blessed, holy Trinity—the Son of God—came to serve His creation by living a sinless life and dying a sinner's death. Miraculous!
Go Deeper:
Read 2 Corinthians 3:4-6.
Pray for God’s help to realize that His self-sufficiency has provided for you.
Grace & Peace,
John
(You can reach Pastor John at jwhite@thevillagemi.com)