Doctors tell us that we need to examine ourselves. Many tumors can be felt, moles that change shape or color. We need to look and feel in order to catch these problems early. The Bible also teaches self-examination. Paul said, Examine yourselves (2 Corinthians 13:5). James writes of looking in a mirror to examine ourselves (2 Corinthians 1:23). Some questions someone put together for spiritual self-examination include:
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Am I so CRITICAL that I see only a person's failures and not his/her good points?
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Am I so CHILDISH that people must handle me gently lest I be offended?
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Am I MATURE ENOUGH to handle hurts and disappointments without making everyone else miserable?
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Do I HURT people while boasting, I believe in saying what I think?
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Can I be completely TRUSTED with confidential information?
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Am I guilty of making SARCASTIC REMARKS about the success of others?
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Am I big enough to admit when I am wrong, or do I seek to excuse myself by BLAMING OTHERS?
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Do I excuse my sins, while self-righteously CONDEMNING others?
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Are others UPLIFTED AND ENCOURAGED through their association with me?
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Do I follow after peace, or do my words and actions PROMOTE STRIFE?
- Bob Plunket, Via Stage Road Church of Christ