examine

“Examine yourselves to see if you’re in the faith. Test yourselves or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?”

2 Corinthians 13:5 

Self examination keeps us grounded, empowering us to walk in the likeness of Christ and be led by the Holy Spirit.

It’s not easy to faithfully follow Jesus today. While the moral teachings of Jesus are becoming increasingly unpopular,  Paul encourages us to check in with ourselves and examine our life of faith.
What are we to look for? We are to see if Jesus Christ is in us. We are not to look for perfection—in ourselves or others—but there are a number of ways to identify real evidence of the Spirit working in our lives:

Trust in Christ (He 3:6) Are we placing our trust in Christ daily or our circumstances?

Obedience to God’s will (Mt 7:21) Though no one is perfect, we should experience an increasing desire to obey God. Do we desire that Christ may live in us so that we may walk in faithfulness?

Growth in holiness (1 Jn 3:3) Is our heart cry to know Christ and abide in Him? Who are you when no one is around?

Fruit of the spirit (Gal 5:22-23) Love, JOY, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, kindness, faithfulness and self control— none of which are achieved by works, but birthed through abiding.

Love for other believers (1 Jn 3:14) Despite our differences, Jesus loves His church—we should too!

Positive influence on others (Mt 5:16) Paul boldly exhorted to the Corinthians “Imitate me as I imitate Christ,” (1 Cor 11:1) Looking at your relationships, are people encouraged in their faith?

Adhere to sound teaching (1 Jn 4:2) Amidst much false teaching in society today, we must remain firm in the truth of Scripture. There is only one gospel, one Spirit, one truth and they will never contradict one another.

Life in the Spirit is a choice. It is participating in Christ’s resurrection which means daily dying to ourselves so that we can be filled with His Spirit. Allow Him to search your heart today knowing He is gentle and committed to presenting you blameless before the presence of God (Jude 1:24). 

reflect:

Ask the Lord to examine your heart and reveal any area in your life that is acting counter to His desire for you. Where do you see room for growth? What do you find challenging? May we grow in grace and show forth the love and grace of Christ.

centering prayer

LORD, help me live the rest of my life walking in spirit and truth to Your glory. amen.