Who is the real you? The one we all see outside or the one only you and God know?
The correct answer I thinks is both!
The external you is a reflection of the internal you. If you work on the internal you, the external you would be transformed automatically!
If you work however on the external you, only more frustration, shame, fear, doubt and confusion results!
This is why it is important to start your prayers by acknowledging the greatness of God and confessing to Him our failures so that we can be forgiven and transformed. 1 John 1:9-10.
When sin and personal ambitions are removed from our hearts, we get answers to our prayers!
Think of it. If you are asking for what God wants, why would He not answer?
But if you are asking for what God wants but you are asking so that you look like a successful minister, what would a loving Heavenly Father do?
So as you seek to be a disciple maker, talk to your Heavenly Father about your inner thoughts and ambitions. Remember the people that have offended you! Do not waste time praying for other things without genuinely desiring to stop all known sins and personal ambitions.
Spend as much time as you need asking the Lord to take over the seat of your life and thoughts.
You will get more results from prayer when your heart is truly seeking the Glory of God.
Recently I found myself seeking for more people to attend a meeting but then I could also sense a subtle but real desire for me not to be a failure behind that desire.
It doesn’t matter if you are seen as a failure or not. What must be topmost in your heart is that the will of God (salvation) be done!
As you pray this week. Let the Holy Spirit show you your heart and your motives. Then ask God for grace! Receive grace to let go of those thoughts and choose to live only for the glory of God.
Talk to God about your inner life!