Personal Examination

Mark 8:36-38, "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? 37 Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? 38 For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.” (NKJV)

Many of us find it a lot easier to examine the life of our friend, neighbor, family member or even our brother or sister in Christ rather than examining our own life. We need to be honest with ourselves and confess that it is challenging to take a deep inward look at "me." It is during those moments of introspection that we learn the most about ourselves.

We even hear the coaches and players on sports team remind their team members that each man/woman needs to take a honest look at themselves and evaluate their personal performance. They will even distance themselves from the players who talk about the "others" without referencing their own need to improve. I want to guard against that spirit taking control of my spirit as I evaluate my spiritual journey. 

Jesus asked two very important questions to those who were listening to Him. He begins the questions with the words "what will" and then proceeds to lay out two scenarios that need to be considered. Let us remind ourselves of those pertinent questions that should affect the way we live our lives.  "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? 37 Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?"

Jesus then goes on to remind us of the ultimate price that the actions of denial will have in our spiritual future. We must stop putting off our personal time of introspection. We must stop putting off the continuing development of our personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It is time to "step up to the plate" and take full responsibility for our walk with Christ!!!