death to self

I was reminded of this quote. It has been transformed in my heart into a regular reminder and prayer. I couldn't remember the words exactly because they have taken so many different shapes in my life.

I found it in an online copy of a memoir (ironically on page 187):

To one who asked (Mueller) the secret of his service he said:

"There was a day when I died, utterly died;"

and, as he spoke, he bent lower and lower until he almost touched the floor —

"died to George Mueller, his opinions, preferences, tastes and will — died to the world, its approval or censure — died to the approval or blame even of my brethren and friends — and since then I have studied only to show myself 'approved unto God.'"

What a gift. May it be a continual prayer of the hearts of those who seek to honor God and follow Jesus.