Flat on my face...

I have definitely experienced trying to go at it alone. In my head I know better than to try to do things on my own, but my independant, stubborn heart insists it is powerful enough to make it through alone. I find this is most true when I am trying to help others with their problems. I start out relying on my power sometimes but in turn find myself lacking in emotional strength and practical wisdom. I kind of see it like an over-zealous child trying to learn to ride a bike on their own, when they still haven't mastered walking without holding their parents' hands. I know I am still like that when it comes to relying on God to work through me by His Spirit. Sometimes it is because I am forgetful but sometimes it is because I am just plain hard-headed and independant. Other times is my big, fat pride creeping in to take the throne once more. Whichever the case I know that the outcomes are much more satisfactory and my life is richer and blessed when I am completely enveloped and powered by the Holy Spirit. The many times I have put my complete reliance and trust in God, the Spirit has done amazing things in my life and the lives around me. It's an amazing place to be. As I slowly mature, I see this more and more consistently and I am amazed by the loving way He continues to instruct me in His way. He empowers me with His strength, wisdom and love. In turn, amazing things happen. I've been a Christian for quite awhile and somedays I feel like I still need to learn this lesson completely. Thank goodness Jesus never stops holding my hand and picking me back up when I run ahead without him and have fallen flat on my face.