Read: Hebrews 4: 12-13
"Examine
yourselves to see whether you are in the faith;" - 2 Corinthians 13:5a
Having to take an exam often strikes terror in our heart. The idea of failing and looking foolish, or of disappointing the people we want to impress, causes us a great deal of trepidation. However, a test is really a very positive tool. It points out the areas in our life where we are already excelling, at the same time that it illuminates areas where we need to improve.
Having to take an exam often strikes terror in our heart. The idea of failing and looking foolish, or of disappointing the people we want to impress, causes us a great deal of trepidation. However, a test is really a very positive tool. It points out the areas in our life where we are already excelling, at the same time that it illuminates areas where we need to improve.
Examining our
thoughts, motives, plans, goals and activities increases our productivity and
cuts out waste and excesses that hinder our efficiency in life. Most programs
created to help people to overcome addictions encourage their participants to
examine their life and to evaluate their core issues and beliefs. God
encourages us to do this same thing in Corinthians.
The lamp of the
Lord searches the spirit of every man. It searches out our innermost thoughts
and the reality of who we really are (Proverbs 20:27). This inventory gives us
a true picture of our liabilities and our assets. Once we know them, we can
then ask the Spirit of God to replace our faults with His fruit and to use our
strengths for His Kingdom.
Sometimes,
people decide that there are portions of their soul that are better off
ignored. We have a past that we are not proud of, or that is full of abuse and
misunderstanding. We do not want to face all of those issues again. We think
that they are behind us, but we do not realize that they filter up from our
subconscious mind and affect every decision we ever make, every attitude we
ever adopt and every emotion we ever feel.
However, if we face even our darkest
fears, attitudes and desires, we give God the opportunity to fill our empty
soul with His character. Our lives are richer, fuller and more dynamic; and
we can actually make a true difference in our world.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus,
today I want to open my heart while Your Spirit searches my innermost being.
Wash me clean as I read Your Word and forgive me of my transgressions. Guide me
with Your Spirit each and every new day and use me for your Kingdom.
Thought for the
Day:
Clarity in our soul brings fullness to our spirit.
