Church Meetings and the Power of Self

Today marked the first day of a set of meetings at church that will last all week...well, through Friday night, skipping Saturday, and then closing next Sunday. Our speaker is Charles Tenney from West Virginia.

One thought that has struck me already (as a reminder) is how strong Self is when it comes to denying it. Pastor has called on those who would be willing to fast and pray for these meetings. There of course is a "denying of Self" in those things, but also in attending the meetings each night. That "denying of Self" bleeds over into all areas of serving the Lord.

I'm sure that this is not a new idea to any of you. Personally, I have heard it many times from the pulpit. Yet, I think we become lulled into a complacent attitude toward Self. We acknowledge its presence, but fail to understand its strength and influence in our lives.

Try skipping meals for a day or getting up an hour earlier to study God's word. See how hard Self will rationalize against these things. Faith is Self's archenemy, for faith takes God at His word and walks without needing a rational explanation other than "thus saith the Lord."

Let us begin this week stepping out in faith, denying Self, and living for the glory of God...for that is our purpose. We are created to bring pleasure and glory to God. That is why we are here. May He make a name for Himself in us, His people!