"Imagine flying in an airplane, look out one side of the plane and see the left wing–it reads "dependence". On the right side is the wing of "discipline." We need both to "fly" in the Christian life. Discipline refers to those activities designed to train a person in a particular skill. Dependence refers to the trust we have in God to work through us. We mistakenly assert that the believer’s job is to trust, while God does the work."
"God’s work does not make our efforts unnecessary but rather makes them effective."
Jerry Bridges, The Discipline of Grace.
While I agree with Jerry Bridge’s above conclusion, I wonder if he does not express more confidence in our "efforts" than we rightly deserve? As I understand Scripture, both our "dependence" and our "discipline" are gifts from God ( Philippians 4:13. 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24) I find believers need no more encouragement to strive or exert more effort. In fact, we need all the help the Spirit is willing to give to trust in the God who boldly affirms, "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure."
I am strengthened by the truth that I can worry less about "my part" in the mystery of union with Christ and rest more in His work accomplished and being accomplished in me!