Oswald Chambers on “the deep, hidden areas of our own character”

No matter how humble we think we are, how balanced and measured we perceive our lives to be, some pride or vanity still lurks within our hearts, ever ready to burst forth into ugliness. … That’s what Oswald Chambers found. He said: “We can only be used by God after we allow Him to show us the deep, hidden areas of our own character. It is astounding how ignorant we are about ourselves!” (My Utmost For His Highest, January 12) That’s why there is more to being alone with God than finding time to sit in an empty room. We must empty out self as well. We may think that we understand ourselves and are free of pretension, but there are still so many things that we’re holding onto. As Chambers concluded: “There are vast areas of stubbornness and ignorance the Holy Spirit has to reveal in us, but it can only be done when Jesus gets us alone. Are we alone with Him now? Or are we concerned with our own ideas, friendships, and cares for our bodies?” (January 13). (Living Large, chapter 9)