Self-examination

Self-examination is essential for the disciple. As I heard a pastor say once, "Keep in touch with your depravity." Now, the purpose of that exam is not so that you will throw a huge pity party, or question God's ability to use you, or be overwhelmed by your struggle toward Christ-likeness. (The struggle is dynamic prove of discipleship. He is working in your life!) The purposes for self-examination are diverse but powerful. The more I see myself as He sees me the more amazed I am at His grace and love. He saved me by His grace. He now sustains me by His grace. Understanding the deep love of God for me as I am motivates me to serve Him through the love of my obedience. How can I not respond to His love but by being obedient?! Sel-examination also enables me to love others as He does--as they are on their own journey to Christ-likeness. It quickly enlightens me to my own weaknesses and removes any thoughts of judging the weaknesses of others. We are on this journey together--and the end is promised: when we see Him we will be like Him. There is great humility to be found in self-examination. Self-examination also reminds me of my dependence on Him for spiritual growth--I cannot maufacture spiritulality--only the Spirit can transform me. I am the clay pot. He is the power and the treasure in the vessel that makes it fit for the Master's use--as He sees fit. Self-examination as a catalyst for my amazement at His great love, as a lesson in humility in my interactions with the rest of His children, and as a reminder of my total dependence on His power is vital to my walk and growth.