How can we implement regular self-assessment in our spiritual practices? The Call to Self-Judgment (1 Corinthians 11:31) “Now if we judged ourselves properly, we would not come under judgment.” Paul ties self-examination to the Lord’s Supper, yet the principle reaches into every corner of discipleship: consistent, Spirit-led self-assessment keeps us from drifting into sin and discipline. Why Regular Self-Assessment Matters • Protects fellowship with God and others (Isaiah 59:2; 1 John 1:7) • Prevents divine correction by dealing with sin early (Hebrews 12:5-6) • Fuels growth through repentance and obedience (Proverbs 28:13) Daily Heart Checks • Morning surrender: offer the day to the Lord (Romans 12:1) • Scripture mirror: read and personalize a passage, asking where obedience is needed (James 1:22-25) • Evening review: invite the Spirit to search the day’s words, motives, reactions (Psalm 139:23-24) • Immediate confession: the moment conviction comes, agree with God and receive cleansing (1 John 1:9) Weekly and Monthly Rhythms • Sabbath reflection: set aside unhurried time to recount God’s work, identify patterns, plan repentance steps (Exodus 20:8-11; Galatians 6:4) • Communion preparation: before the Table, examine attitudes toward Christ and the body (1 Corinthians 11:28-29) • First-of-the-month inventory: list answered prayers, recurring temptations, progress in spiritual disciplines (Lamentations 3:40) Tools for Honest Evaluation • Truth of Scripture – standard that never shifts (Psalm 19:7-9) • Voice of the Spirit – inner witness convicting and guiding (John 16:8,13) • God-fearing friends – gentle restorers who speak truth in love (Galatians 6:1-2; Proverbs 27:6) • Journaling – captures victories, failures, and prayers, making growth traceable (Habakkuk 2:2) Guardrails That Keep Assessment Healthy • Grace over guilt: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1) • Focus on Christ’s sufficiency, not self-reliance (2 Corinthians 12:9) • Aim for transformation, not perfectionism (Philippians 1:6) • Guard the heart above all else; life flows from it (Proverbs 4:23) Fruit We Can Expect • Clean conscience and renewed joy (Psalm 32:1-2,11) • Increased discernment and wisdom (Hebrews 5:14) • Steady growth in Christlike character (2 Peter 1:5-8) • Readiness to help others walk in freedom (2 Corinthians 1:4) Practiced in these simple, consistent ways, self-assessment becomes a life-giving habit that aligns the heart with God’s Word and keeps the pathway of fellowship clear. |
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