How can regular self-examination strengthen your relationship with God? Setting the Stage: 2 Corinthians 13:5 “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Can’t you see for yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you actually fail the test?” What Self-Examination Is—and Is Not • A Spirit-guided look in the mirror of Scripture, not a self-help exercise • A test of genuine, saving faith, not a hunt for perfection • An invitation to confirm Christ’s indwelling, not a license for self-condemnation • Ongoing and regular, not a once-in-a-lifetime audit How Self-Examination Strengthens Your Walk with God • Clears the channel of fellowship ‑ Psalm 139:23-24—asking God to expose hidden sin opens the way for cleansing (1 John 1:9). • Rekindles assurance ‑ Romans 8:16—the Spirit bears witness when we see the marks of grace in our lives. • Realigns priorities ‑ Romans 12:2—renewing the mind corrects drift toward the world’s values. • Fuels growth ‑ James 1:23-25—acting on what the Word reveals turns listeners into doers. • Cultivates humility and gratitude ‑ Lamentations 3:40 and Galatians 6:4—honest appraisal keeps pride in check and highlights God’s mercy. Practical Rhythms to Make It Happen • Set a daily moment of quiet before Scripture; let the text ask the questions. • Invite the Holy Spirit’s searchlight with Psalm 139:23-24. • Keep a short account—confess promptly, receive forgiveness, and move forward. • Journal patterns the Lord reveals; trace progress over weeks and months. • Memorize anchor verses (like 1 John 1:9; Philippians 4:8) to preach truth to yourself. • Share findings with a trusted believer for encouragement and accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). Pitfalls to Guard Against • Endless introspection that never looks up to Christ’s finished work • Measuring yourself by others rather than by Scripture • Confusing conviction (which leads to repentance) with condemnation (which paralyzes) • Treating the process as a duty instead of a grace-filled conversation with your Savior Encouragement to Continue Every honest inventory answered by Christ’s cleansing blood deepens intimacy with Him. Regular self-examination turns 2 Corinthians 13:5 from a warning into a wellspring of assurance, joy, and steadfast growth. |
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