"The missionary’s message is not nationalistic, favoring nations or individuals; it is "for the whole world." When the Holy Spirit comes into me, He does not consider my partialities or preferences; He simply brings me into oneness with the Lord Jesus." My Utmost For His Highest

What do you mean by that, Oswald? What does he mean by that, Lord? Is he going so far as to say that the Holy Spirit doesn't take "inventory" of me as He inhabits me, or is he just saying that the Holy Spirit doesn't bother to ask me who I'd like to become (my idol, earthly hero, etc), but instead just gets to the job of conforming me to Jesus' image?

I sure do wish You worked a little faster, Holy Spirit! But as soon as I say that, I know that the fast tracks to growth are always marked with pain (trials produce perseverance which produces maturity), I know that the task of getting me to Christ-likeness is a lifetime endeavor (because I'm so far from it now!), I know that He can only do what I cooperate with Him to do (we could go a little faster if I took the crucified life more seriously), and He works according to God's will and specific purposes for me (to give me backbone for the ministries He will do through me).

So yes, faster. But only according to Your will and Your purposes and for Your glory.

Lord, I thank You again for opening up doors and leading me! For cheap shoes that enable me to have extra money to give to someone in need. For choir practice, putting songs in my heart, and on a path to discipline. For free plants and a loving mother-in-law. For BEAUTIFUL weather and time to work outside in it! For the promise of Heaven. For new friends and cherished "old" ones. For anticipation of the holidays and changing traditions. For the fact that You saved me and continue to save me from my sin. For the precious gift of Your Spirit who enables me to do anything worth doing, say anything worth saying, and be anything worth being. For limitless possibilities, but only one reality that is infinitely better than my poor imagination could fathom. For Your vast riches You lavishly grace me with. For the ability to come to You, talk with You, be loved by You. For You. You whom I love. Help me love You more and more - an inevitable outcome of knowing You more and more! Help my unbelief.