An Examination of Self

Psalms 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.

How easy it is to see the sinfulness and wickedness of others. How easy it is to judge someone else's actions and motives; yet, be so blind to our own shortcomings. The psalmist clearly declares his hatred for those who are wicked, proud, slanderous, and who hate God. However, he also recognizes that there were imperfections and sinfulness in him as well. For this reason he called upon God, who knew him better than he knew himself, to examine him deep within, in the place he could not see for himself. In doing so, his desire was that God would expose to him any hidden or presumptuous sin, and any hint of mistrust or lack of faith. It is far too easy for us to pray that God would rain justice down upon everyone else who does wrong, but does that include our wrong? A prayer such as this is not one to be prayed lightly. As a matter of fact, it is a dangerous prayer to pray; dangerous because we must be ready, not only for the Lord to show us what is in us, but also ready to let Him lead us in His ways. Today, if our desire is that the Lord would take vengeance on the wicked, then we must first begin with an examination of self. This is one that we cannot conduct ourselves, but ask the Lord to be our Examiner. When He reveals what He knows is already there, we will need to hold on and get ready for a ride that will take us on a path that only He can lead us on. Are we ready?

Today, God extends an invitation to you to accept His free gift of salvation (Rom 7:23). Will you accept it? Anyone who calls on Jesus, by faith, in repentance, confessing your sins, will receive eternal life. Do not put off calling on Him, and receive His free gift of salvation today (Rom 10:13).