The Grammar Doctor

Q. Is the correct pronoun being used in the following sentence? "May the love of the Lord Jesus draw us to himself." Should the sentence read "May the love of the Lord Jesus draw us to him?" Please clarify? Thank you.

A. The correct pronoun here is "him."
" Myself" and similar words (herself, himself, yourself) are reflexive or intensive pronouns. Reflexive pronouns refer back to themselves
She took care of herself.
He understands himself.

Intensive pronouns emphasize.
I saw it myself.
You have to do it yourself.

The -self pronouns should be avoided unless they are in fact reflexive or intensive. If a personal pronoun such as me, her, him, etc. can be used instead of a -self pronoun, it is more appropriate to use the personal pronoun.

WRONG: The support for the team and myself is appreciated.

CORRECTED: The support for the team and me is appreciated.

BETTER STILL: The team and I appreciate your support. [This is better because it uses an active verb rather than a passive one.]


Back to The Grammar Doctor Answers Your Question