The principle of self-reliance grows out of a fundamental doctrine of the Church, that of agency. Just as each individual is accountable for his choices and actions in spiritual matters, so also is he accountable in temporal matters. It is through our own efforts and decisions that we earn our way in this life. While the Lord will magnify us in both subtle and dramatic ways, he can only guide our footsteps when we move our feet. Ultimately, our own actions determine our blessings or lack of them. It is a direct consequence of both agency and accountability.

It is perfectly evident...that to thank the Lord in all things is not merely a courtesy, it is a commandment as binding upon us as any other commandment

Self-Reliance is a prerequisite to the complete freedom to act.

The prime duty of help to the poor by the Church is not to bring temporal relief to their needs, but salvation to their souls.

The principle of self-reliance grows out of a fundamental doctrine of the Church, that of agency. Just as each individual is accountable for his choices and actions in spiritual matters, so also is he accountable in temporal matters. It is through our own efforts and decisions that we earn our way in this life. While the Lord will magnify us in both subtle and dramatic ways, he can only guide our footsteps when we move our feet. Ultimately, our own actions determine our blessings or lack of them. It is a direct consequence of both agency and accountability.

We will see the day when we live on what we produce.

My soul has made its greatest growth as I have been driven to my knees by adversity and affliction.