Spiritual Examination

Yesterday a portion of my day was spent in an out-patient facility undergoing a test which screens for early signs of colon cancer.  Thankfully, I received a good report from the doctor who performed the test; but the test did bring some spiritual comparisons to my heart.  The passage of scripture in 2 Corinthians 13:5 was placed in my heart, "Examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine.  Test yourselves.  Surely you know that Jesus Christ is among you (or in you); if not, you have failed the test of genuine faith." (NLT)

In all honesty each of us know that it is easier to "examine" others than to take the time to examine ourselves.  We can easily identify the faults, failures, shortcomings, and sins of others very quickly.  We can remember the spiritual history of others yet quickly find many reasons to justify our actions or reactions to certain situations.  This post is not meant to condemn us or even justify the sins of others but it is meant to challenge each of us to allow the Holy Spirit to lead us into a heartfelt examination of our relationship with Jesus Christ.  A Minister by the name of Elwood Matthews who recently passed away used to talk about a "know so salvation."  In my opinion this comment referred to the benefit of knowing that we were able to participate in a relationship with Christ that is identifiable.  The death of Christ made it possible for us to have a relationship that can be developed and maintained through the presence of the Spirit which is at work in our hearts on an on-going basis.  The preparation for my physical examination was somewhat uncomfortable and the medicine which I had to take was at times a little unbearable but the end results of the process was rewarding.  I believe that it is the same with our spiritual journey with God.  The Holy Spirit in combination with the Word of God will identify some needed spiritual adjustments in our lives and we may find those findings uncomfortable but the end result of the correction of those findings will be a richer and deeper relationship with our Savior.  I desire to be open to those needed times of examination so that my relationship with Christ can be a healthy one.