This week in Transforming Thoughts, we began our new study of The Breaking of the Outer Man and the Release of the Spirit by Watchman Nee, diving into Chapter 1: The Importance of Breaking.
Watchman Nee reminds us of a profound truth: the greatest hindrance to our spiritual effectiveness is often ourselves. Our “outer man” — our natural thoughts, emotions, and self-centered patterns — can confine and limit the life of the Spirit within. God’s purpose is to break through these outer barriers, allowing His life to flow freely through us to bless others.
🌾 John 12:24 illustrates this beautifully: unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains alone. Only through breaking and dying can new life and fruitfulness emerge.
🫙 Nee compares us to the alabaster flask, which must be broken for the pure fragrance of the ointment to be released.
Throughout Chapter 1, we reflected on:
Why our spiritual life cannot be fully expressed unless the outer man is dismantled
How God uses experiences, trials, and even delays to bring about this breaking
The call to consecrate ourselves completely so God can have a free way through us
We were challenged to see our difficulties through a new lens: not as obstacles, but as opportunities for God to remove the self-love and self-preservation that block His purposes.
✨ We gather live every Thursday at 7:15 PM PT on Clubhouse — come join us!
🎧 Replays are available on Substack 24 hours after each session.
📝 Bring your journal, and reflect on this question: Where might God be trying to break through my outer man right now? What one area could you surrender more fully this week?
We’ll see you next Thursday as we continue into Chapter 2 of this powerful study!
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