A SPIRITUAL SELF – TEST!

A SPIRITUAL SELF – TEST!

Who am I and what kind of Christianity do I really practice on a daily basis? I believe that is a question we should ask ourselves from time to time. If today is a convenient time for you to ask, let me suggest a few probing questions.

1. AM I CONTENT WITH THE PERSON I AM BECOMING?

Eph 4:22-24

22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Every day – sometimes multiple times within that day – there is a need to put off and put on! As I mature am I growing into a wise person who can provide answers to those who follow after me? If I should ever leave my office as a pastor will I have anything left to fill the vacuum? In other words, is my faith personal or simply professional?

2. IS THE CORE OF MY LIFE QUIET?

Ps 46:10-11

10 Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.

11 The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

I read somewhere that the motto of the average person is: “When in trouble, when in doubt, run in circles, scream and shout!” Has my faith in God provided a quiet confidence even in the midst of turmoil and confusion.

3. DO I HAVE A GROWING PRAYER LIFE?

Are my daily decisions made with prayer or are they driven by emergencies or personal desires?

Phil 4:6-7

6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

4. AM I BECOMING TRULY HUMBLE?

Phil 2:3

3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Nothing is more arrogant than false humility. I do not need to deny the talents I have but I must remember that those talents are products of God working in me. If God has given me a talent or an ability then He intends to direct their use for His purposes and His glory.

5. AM I OBEDIENT IN SMALL MATTERS?

1 John 2:3-4

3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.

4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

The above verse is strong medicine and needs no comment from me!

6. IS THERE JOY IN MY LIFE?

John 15:11

11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.

Joy is not the same as happiness. Happiness is a result of pleasant “happenings!” Joy is the result of knowing that God is in control of every situation – even the unpleasant ones.

Dear Lord, running headlong in my direction today are both good things and bad. Help me to face them both with calm and confidence. AMEN