Self - Examination

Matthew 7:3-5
"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, `Let me take the speck out of your eye' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye..

An honest introspective and orderly review of one's motives and perspectives will always render a renewed appreciation for one's fellows. Although that is a reasonable motive for the objective examination of one's own personality, the primary reason is that unless we know the brutal truth about ourselves, we may never reach the needed degree of humility to successfully encounter God. Over the years, we have covered up our shortcomings, blamed others for our failures, and ultimately, become stagnant in a state of unfulfilled comfort. Without a thorough understanding of the need for God, we will be tolerant of a stunted spiritual condition.

Denial, in of itself, is not bad, in fact it is healthy. If we could remember or be so aware of everything we do or have done, we probably wouldn't have much of a global population problem. Those of us who could survive this misery, would have a real tough time getting a date. That is not what self-examination is all about. It is specifically about taking responsibility for one's own responsibilities. It is not blaming others; it is accepting that sometimes we have been wronged, but usually we have made decisions or taken actions that have placed us in a position to fail. At this level, denial is the worst handicap in spiritual formation.

The recognition of the internal causes of resentment, envy, anger, frustration, and fear will allow the person to present himself wholly to God for forgiveness and healing. Hidden negative thoughts and memories are the breeding ground for lost opportunities, embarrassing circumstances and regrettable moments. Acknowledgment of our individual inadequacy at handling life on its own terms renders us surrendered to the power of God. It is imperative to maintain a consistent and disciplined regimen of self appraisal.