It is never a bad time to take a look inward to check and see how you are doing, especially when you are shepherding others in their spiritual journey. In fact, because we pour ourselves out over and over and over again, we need a constant re-filling of courage, power, peace, and joy. 

I have had a bad habit lately of letting the gas light warn me that I need to fill up the gas tank in my car.  I've been fortunate so far, but it would drive my husband crazy if he knew how often it happens. Shhhh. Don't tell him. Let's see if he reads this blog. 

IT'S DANGEROUS BUSINESS WHEN WE ARE CONSTANTLY SEEING THE "GAS LIGHT" OF OUR SOULS LIGHTING UP THE INSTRUMENT PANEL.

Because the gas light in our souls looks like:

• Disconnection from ourselves, God, and others
• Spoiled Fruit of the Spirit (who wants spoiled fruit?)
• Laziness
• Lack of spiritual power and authority
• Lack of humility and dependence on God

I spent many years not paying attention to what filled me up. And it took me another few years to find spiritual disciplines and habits that satisfied the longing of my soul. I had been around a Christian culture of activity, group Bible Studies, and worship with others. But year after year, I felt like I couldn't fill my "spiritual tank." 

And that is when I learned about a whole other world of spiritual disciplines! Water to my parched spirit.  I learned about the examen, solitude, silence, breath prayer, spiritual direction.... 

And now I make it a habit to do a check-in regularly.  

I had a friend in our high school youth group who, after going to college, would come back home, and ask me and others, "How are you REALLY doing?" I found it slightly obnoxious how he would lean in and look me right in the eyes. I knew what he meant, though.  He meant "Are you spending time with the Lord?" "Are you sharing faith with others?" "Are you being real with yourself and God and me?" 

Here are some ways that you can incorporate a regular check-in:

1. Put it in your calendar. Start with once a month. Spend some time silent before God. Get out your journal and look inward at your heart. Invite God in and ask yourself, "How am I REALLY doing?" 
2. Sign up for the Free "5 Spiritual Check-in Questions" here or below.
3. Consider the "Soul Focus" program at Tree by Water, an individualized online spiritual direction relationship. Sometimes it helps to have someone asking the hard questions. More info here.   

And so, as much as I can do through this Blog, I am leaning in and looking you straight in the eye ball.

"How are you REALLY doing?"

I would love it if you would share the "5 Spiritual Check-In Questions" with your ministry friends! Feel free to email, post on FB or Twiiter!