"If the worker himself believes in Jesus Christ and is trusting in the reality of redemption, his words will be compelling to others. What is extremely important is for the worker’s simple relationship with Jesus Christ to be strong and growing. His usefulness to God depends on that, and that alone." My Utmost For His Highest

I know that my family knows that about me. But do I do this?:

"The calling of a New Testament worker is to expose sin and to reveal Jesus Christ as Savior. Consequently, he cannot always be charming and friendly, but must be willing to be stern to accomplish major surgery. We are sent by God to lift up Jesus Christ, not to give wonderfully beautiful speeches. We must be willing to examine others as deeply as God has examined us. We must also be sharply intent on sensing those Scripture passages that will drive the truth home, and then not be afraid to apply them."

Is it my job to examine others? I feel like when I do that I get led astray in my own pride and judgment. I think I have a much healthier attitude toward the lost (or floundering) than I've ever had before. Possibly because I've been humbled so much lately. It's YOU alone who has the ability to judge correctly, so I suppose if you wanted to let me in on that, You certainly can. But I shouldn't be examining others all the time, right?!?

My biggest problem is still that I don't have a good enough discipline in the scriptures in order to "sense" the "passages that will drive the truth home" - both for me personally and for others I minister to. I really want to get this, but we'll have to see!

Lord, I come before You this morning impatient and unbelieving. I so desperately want to hear from You about Sudan and Perspectives, as it relates to Michael. I yearn for him to lead our efforts in that direction, but whatever my concept of what that means, he isn't doing exactly that. Open my eyes to see the ways he IS leading us in that area and rather than conform him to my will, let me be conformed to Yours, and submissive to him. I am so incredibly grateful for my husband. He is so far beyond what I ever imagined I could have. He is so strong yet so gentle. And he loves me and the kids indescribably much. Lord, be with Him. Speak a fresh word to Him. Protect him as he travels back home tonight. Invigorate him as he finishes his responsibilities out of town. Enlighten us - show us how we can reconnect, rest, and renew this weekend so that our marriage and family will continue to bring You glory.

Grant us Your wisdom as we make plans for this Christmas. May they be driven by You and not by our mistaken notions of "principal" or my own fleshly desire to rebel. I know You will orchestrate things beautifully.

Most of all, though, keep pouring Your Spirit, truth, love, and strength into me. I am so empty and that is not what You desire. Keep me coming back to the methods for allowing You to fill me up. I am vulnerable to cave into my cravings right now, so I intend to starve them of their power over me by exercising self-control. As I do, I know You will give me the power to follow-through. I love You so much, Lord. I surrender my all to You.