As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me. We should not do anything without checking with God. Receiving direction from God is the greatest help you can get. If we fail to seek God's help, we are headed for trouble, because the devil sets traps to destroy us. Prayer is the opposite of doing things by yourself.
Prayer is hard on pride.
Proud people do not pray much. God can do more in one minute than you can do in a lifetime. Teach Us To Pray Jesus obviously impressed His disciples with His prayer life, and the importance of prayer. But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength. . . . Prayer is a spiritual exercise, and strengthens you spiritually.