Pro 3:7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the LORD and depart from evil.
Self-reliance is the deception that tells men that they are intelligent enough without the help of another. Today men suppress the truth in unrighteousness. They have become futile in their thinking and their foolish hearts are darkened. They throw away biblical warnings, counsels and formulate their own. Claiming to be wise, they have become fools, (Rom 1:22). The result? men try to act independently of God by not trusting in Him, or acknowledge Him, or seeking Him for help and direction. He does not ask or take the advice of others; but, being conceited and self-sufficient, he leans on his own understanding as being wise enough to conduct all affairs in life by his own discretion. All these are rooted in pride.
Pride goes before a fall, but “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Pro 9:10). We therefore must live in a humble and dutiful life subject to God and His governing truth. We must strive to fear (reverence) the Lord as our sovereign Lord and Master and be subject to His divine will for our spiritual health and welfare for “It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones.” (Pro 3:8).