As Christians, we are called to be dependent, to become living sacrifices. Yet, we live in a "pull yourselves up by your own bootstraps" world that puts a high values on independence and self-reliance. Because we are still human, we sometimes can struggle with the temptation, particularly during times of trial, to take back control and operate in our own strength.
In John 21, Jesus teaches the disciples, and us by extension, how to be renewed in our trust and dependence on Him.