[Gamecock]

Just a nit, but this is describing a Christian, does it mean that we remain depraved? Or that we remain depraved only when we rely on our own strength?

That is a great question. On our own devices, even as a Christian, we are still pretty useless, until we have been Sanctified (made Christlike) Now when that happens is another story/argument. I think for some of us it happens pretty quickly in their walk, some others it takes years. Those in whom it takes years often provide a pretty interesting testimony...

2Tim.2 [21] If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.

[FactQuest]

sanctification

Paul claimed depravity in himself, yet God was using him to set the Gentile world on fire.

Maybe we always do better to rely on God, even after we are sanctified... or maybe learning to always rely on God IS sanctification.

I don't think Paul was indulging in false humility, for that would be akin to pride.