In his book The Practice of Godliness, Jerry Bridges speaks of the “Spiritual Principle of Responsibility and Dependence.”  Many believe that the Christian is supposed to live one way or the other, either a life of responsibility or a life of dependence. 

     As frail, finite, fallen creatures we are to depend upon the power, the mercy, and the Spirit of God to develop holy lives. In the transaction of grace, we cannot depend upon our own virtue or righteousness.  However, we are not mechanical robots without a free-will.  We cannot assume that godliness will just somehow occur without us ever putting forth an effort.  So, do we become holy through total dependence upon the Lord, or do we become holy through personal obligation?  The answer: both.

     “Though the power of godly character comes from Christ,” Bridges contends, “the responsibility for developing and displaying the character is ours.”  Walking in holiness ultimately involves two strides – one stride of dependence, the other stride of responsibility.  Only by the unmerited favor of God can we pursue a godly life, but in order to obtain we must pursue.  Perhaps the psalmist said it best, “As the hart panteth after the waterbrooks; so panteth my soul after thee, O God.”  Depend upon God responsibly.