How to Stop Striving: Is it God Doing the Work or Are You Trying to Fix Yourself?

Are you exhausted from trying to be a “better Christian,” follow all the rules, or just fix yourself? In this episode, Heather Creekmore dives into the age-old dilemma every believer faces: Am I supposed to be working on me—and if so, how much of it is up to me, and how much is God’s job? Inspired by the Crowder song “He’s Working on Me Still,” Heather explores the difference between self-powered striving and Spirit-powered transformation. Using honest stories, biblical wisdom (especially from Galatians 5), and practical illustrations, she helps Christian women understand why hustling for holiness leaves us tired—and how true freedom and growth comes when we move from “I’m working on me” to “He’s working on me.” In This Episode: Why spiritual striving, religious rule-following, and willpower can’t bring long-term freedom How diet culture mindsets sneak into our faith and make us rely on formulas instead of God What it means to step out of the driver’s seat and let God be in control (with relatable analogies and humor) The power of relationship over religion and why faith is more than just “doing all the things” How to recognize if your spiritual life is based on head knowledge, not heart transformation Practical steps to move from self-reliance to Spirit-dependence—including honest reflection questions and the importance of daily worship Key Takeaway:Stop striving for self-improvement and start leaning into God’s grace. When we let go of self-reliance and invite the Holy Spirit to lead, we experience true rest, freedom, and lasting spiritual growth. Mentions & Resources: 40-Day Journey: Starts October 1st, with groups beginning October 7th. Details at improvebodyimage.com or directly at: https://www.improvebodyimage.com/40-day-challenge Body Image Freedom Framework: Heather’s online course for deeper freedom in the areas discussed in the episode.  Coaching and community offerings: Here are links to programs designed to equip women for the real battle. Book Rec: “When People Are Big and God is Small” by Ed Welch (Amazon affiliate link) Listener Challenge:Who’s really in the driver’s seat of your faith right now? This week, pause and ask God to lead, spend extra time in worship, and notice where you’re striving instead of surrendering. Leave a Review:Has this episode helped you break free from comparison and spiritual exhaustion? Leave a quick review—it helps others find the show! Subscribe to Compared to Who? for Christian perspectives on body image, freedom from comparison, and finding true rest in Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.