Examine yourselves. 2 Corinthians 13:5 (NIV)
Using the Bible as a tool for self-examination is good to do on a regular basis and at particular times.
On a regular basis
When you read the Bible ask yourself, Is there a promise to believe, a command to obey, or a sin to avoid? Try to see if what you are reading points to a sin that could be lurking in your life.
You may know the story about four men who wanted to bring their paralyzed friend to Jesus, but they couldn’t get near to him because of the crowd. Instead of giving up, they climbed on top of the house where Jesus was teaching, broke through the roof, and lowered their paralyzed friend (on his bed), right at the feet of Jesus!
What’s the sin to avoid? The sin of giving up too quickly. The sin of saying, “It’s too difficult.” The sin of saying, “I’m too busy, I can’t be bothered.” When you read the Bible, ask “Is there a sin to avoid?” The entrance of God’s Word will give you light. You will start seeing where sin lurks within your own soul, and once you see it, you will be in a position to deal with it.
At particular times
It’s also good to have particular times of self-examination where you take an honest look at your own heart. Use the Scriptures as a grid for examining yourself. You could begin with the Ten Commandments. Write down what each command requires and ask God to show you where your heart is out of line with his purpose. You can use many passages of Scripture this way, like 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 or Matthew 5:1-12.
Are you examining yourself regularly? Are you setting aside particular times?
