Your Spiritual Checkup

When I went for a physical a couple weeks ago, bloodwork showed my blood sugar was too high, and I’m now taking steps to correct it. Without that examination, I would never have known these changes were needed. Likewise, the people of God need to be taking regular examination of themselves so that they can correct any spiritual problems.

Scripture urges us to make regular self-examination. “First take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye” (Matt 7:5). “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves” (2 Cor 13:5). “Each one should test their own actions” (Gal 6:4).

Below are some questions to help with that spiritual checkup:

• Am I assembling with the saints as much as I could (Heb 10:25)?
• Am I forgiving those who sin against me (Matt 6:14-15)?
• Am I praying regularly (1 Thess 5:17)?
• Am I sharing my faith (Matt 28:19)?
• Am I thankful (1 Thess 5:18)?
• Am I contributing cheerfully to the work of the Lord (2 Cor 9:7)?
• Am I loving my brothers and sisters (1 Pet 1:22)?
• Am I regularly spending time in Scripture to learn God’s will for me (Acts 17:11)?
• Am I humble (Phil 2:3-4)?
• Am I sharing with those who are in need (Rom 12:13)?
• Am I living in harmony with my brethren (Rom 12:16)?
• Am I retaliating when someone wrongs me (Matt 5:38-42)?
• Am I lusting (Matt 5:27-30)?
• Am I treating my spouse God’s way (Eph 5:21-33)?
• Am I struggling with anger (Matt 5:21-22)?

These questions—and others you might add—will help you see yourself as God sees you. Be honest with yourself (God already knows the answers!) and repent where repentance is required and walk ever more closely with Christ.

This article was originally written by Dr. Justin Imel, Sr., for the weekly newsletter at Church of Christ Deer Park in Deer Park, Texas.