The Refiner's Fire

"...And he who rules his spirit (is better) than he who takes a city..." - Proverbs 16:32

Lately, I've been faced with some questions that I couldn't really answer clearly and quickly.  So I'll share them with you.  I think it is important to be ready to answer these 5 questions at any time.  We cannot rule our own spirit, as stated in the above verse, if we do not know the state of our own spirit.  This comes only by seeking the Lord.

1. What is the reason for your faith?  (see 1 Peter 3:15)
To be a good salesman, you must believe in the product.  We must have a personal testament of why we have made Jesus Christ Lord.  

2. How has God moved in your life recently?  (read the story of the Chariots of Fire in 2 Kings 6:8-22)
We must have fresh reason for thanksgiving and praise.  The Lord is on the move, but we must ask Him to open our eyes that we may see Him.

3. What do you need prayer for (spiritually speaking)?  (see Hebrews 12:25-27) 
We must constantly let the Lord search our hearts for what is hindering us from Him, and be ready to put to death all disobedience.  

4. What are you working toward? (see Proverbs 29:18)
We must have fresh revelation of purpose and vision for our lives.

5. What is the Spirit speaking to you today?  (see Matthew 4:4)
We are given life by the spoken Word of the Lord.  What is He moving you to do today?  What is He telling you about Himself today?

These are simple questions, but to truly get the answers, we have to get down and dirty in the Lord's Refining Fire.  This takes time and diligent seeking, but the reward is a spirit and life that is in step with God.