We constantly attempt to manufacture our own goodness. We try to present our best selves to the world through intense personal effort.

The text of the Bible compares the church to the moon. In literal terms of astronomy, the moon does not shine. A rock in space cannot generate fire or light. It only reflects the light of the sun.

You operate the exact same way. You do not possess any inherent spiritual light. Any goodness, patience, or truth you display comes directly from Jesus.

"Who is she who looks forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, awesome as an army with banners?" Song of Solomon 6:10 (NKJV) 

Because you do not generate the light, you cannot take the credit for it. This fact removes the pressure of religious performance.

You do not have to burn yourself out trying to produce light; you only need to allow the light of God to reflect off you.