Here are some of the traits which can indicate a carnal, worldly heart. By prayer, will you hold your heart open to the searchlight of God, until you see the foundation there? “Search me, a God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23, 24).

As you read, examine yourself in the very presence of God. Are you ever conscious of…

A secret spirit of pride – a feeling of superiority, however slight, in view of your education, success, or position; because of your good background or appearance; because of your natural gifts and abilities. An important, independent spirit.

Love of human praise – a secret fondness to be noticed; a drawing attention to self in conversation; a self-satisfied feeling when you have had the floor in speaking or praying.

Stirrings of anger or impatience – which you may call nervousness or holy indignation; a touchy, sensitive spirit; a tendency to resent or retaliate when disapproved of or contradicted; a desire to reply to another with sharp words.

Self-will – a stubborn, unteachable spirit; an argumentative manner; harsh, sarcastic expressions; an unyielding, headstrong disposition; an inclination to criticize and pick flaws when ignored or overlooked; a peevish, fretful spirit; a disposition that loves to be coaxed and humored.

Jealous disposition – a secret spirit of envy in your heart; an unpleasant sensation when told of the great success and prosperity of another; a tendency to speak of the faults and failings of those more talented and appreciated than yourself.

A dishonest, deceitful disposition – the evading and covering of the truth; the covering up of your real faults; leaving a better impression of yourself than is strictly true; false humility; exaggeration; stretching the truth.

Unbelief – a spirit of discouragement in times of pressure and opposition; lack of quietness and confidence in God; lack of faith and trust in God; a tendency to worry and complain in the midst of pain or poverty; an over- anxious feeling of dreaded outcomes.

Formality and deadness – a lack of concern for lost souls; dryness and indifference; lack of power with God.

Selfishness – love of ease; love of money.

The Holy Spirit will enable you, by confession and faith, to bring your self-life to the death. Do not patch over, but go to the depths.

“Create in me a clean heart, 0 God; and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51: 10).

 

Gospel Tract Society, Inc.

Independence, Missouri