I know, this is an odd title for a post. But it is one I’ve been thinking about for a while. Let me explain…

We are all dysfunctional people from dysfunctional families. Every family is dysfunctional, it is just a matter of degree and timing. I was raised by dysfunctional parents from dysfunctional families which resulted in my family being dysfunctional and passing my dysfunction to my children which will result in them having dysfunctional children who will have dysfunctional families.

Don’t get caught up with the word “dysfunction,” it is just another way to say we are all sinners living in a fallen and broken world. Now…

After a few decades of life and many life experiences, I have learned a few things about myself I’m having to work on (And surprise, surprise: The same thing is true of you too!). I am a person who is by nature quiet… but I love being in crowds of God’s people. I tend to say the wrong thing at the wrong time without meaning to (My wife has told me: “Honey, you don’t have to say everything that crosses your mind.” My reply: “Honey… I DON’T!” Which resulted in her rolling her eyes!). I have hearing loss which results in misunderstanding what people say, which is embarrassing. Then, there are times I realize my words could have been better chosen, so I have to work at holding my words.

It takes a long time to come to grips with who we really are. We like to think we’re something that we really aren’t. But that is where the Holy Spirit works to conform us to the image of Christ (Ro 8:29). I’ve found the best way to work WITH the Holy Spirit is to accept that I’m not near perfect. The mistakes I make are the way I realize I’m to work WITH the Holy Spirit to become more like Jesus. But if I deny who I really am, then it just takes longer and more significant lessons for the Holy Spirit to get my attention. His work in this is called Sanctification…

So… who are you… HONESTLY? Are you working WITH the Spirit OR will He have to step it up to get your attention?