We conclude our series this week on The Journals of Jim Elliot with the final excerpt from the Summer of 1948. Oh that we too would count all but loss to win Christ—that He would be the master passion of our lives! We pray that Jim’s diary has kindled a fresh flame in your hearts for Christ.
SEPTEMBER 3 Klamath Falls, Oregon. Kern Hotel, Room 12. On our way to the Oakland Conference [a Plymouth Brethren conference]. Thoughts came to me afresh as to “lifting up” Christ. My preaching last month was on the whole service for service’s sake. Oh, how I thank Thee, Father, for my earthly father who has seen the truth as to motives for service. It is not the winning of souls nor the spreading of missions that should inflame me. Paul said, “I count all loss that I may win (not souls) but Christ” (Phil. 3:8). Oh, that He would be to me as He was to Zinzendorf, the master passion of life! My heart panteth after Thee, not results or power. From henceforth I would not seek an experience—a seal or sign-for I have Him as an object. “The bride eyes not her garment but her dear bride groom’s face…”(From “Rutherford’s Hymn,” Annie R. Cousin.) Occupied not with the tongues of fire; they are incidental to the great transcendental purpose of the Holy Spirit to exalt Christ.
**Excerpt originally published in The Journals of Jim Elliot, pp 82