Faith & Reason Nexus

The Bible calls us to examine ourselves, ensuring we are living according to God’s will and avoiding the pitfalls of sin. Below are key passages that emphasize the importance of self-examination in the Christian life:

1. It is a Command

2 Corinthians 13:5
“Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified.”
This verse commands believers to examine themselves to ensure they are truly in the faith.

2. It is a Must Because of Sin

Jeremiah 17:9
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?”
Because our hearts are deceitful due to sin, self-examination is necessary to avoid being misled by our own desires.

3. Requires Personal Thought

Lamentations 3:40
“Let us search out and examine our ways, and turn back to the Lord.”
Self-examination requires intentional reflection, as we assess our actions and attitudes to ensure they align with God’s will.

4. It Must Be Personal

1 Corinthians 11:28
“But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup.”
This highlights that personal reflection is necessary before participating in the Lord’s Supper, ensuring we approach it with reverence and self-awareness.

5. Everything Must Be Proved

Galatians 6:4
“But let each one examine his own work, and then he will have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.”
We are encouraged to prove our own actions and deeds, reflecting on whether they are worthy of God’s approval.

6. God Examines Us

Psalm 26:2
“Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my mind and my heart.”
God Himself examines us, revealing our true nature and helping us understand areas that need change.

Psalm 139:23-24
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
This prayer asks God to examine us, revealing areas in our lives where we may need to repent or grow.

How Is Your Examination Turning Out?

As you reflect on these passages, take time for personal examination. Are there areas in your life where you need to change? Are you living in a way that pleases God?