Tests for Christians

Starting next Sunday morning, the Santee church will host a week-long series of studies on the subject, "Tests for Christians" in an effort to strengthen each other and encourage all who hear the messages to come to Christ. The major objective of the week is to remind each of us that no matter who we are or where we are in our spiritual lives, we all need to test ourselves.

Much like a diabetic checks his blood sugar or a person trying to lose weight examines his caloric intake, Christians must be constantly aware of where we are and where we want to go. Paul wrote, "examine yourselves" in II Corinthians 13:5, telling those first century Christians to consider where they are in their spiritual development.

Paul told these same Christians that such self-examinations are also a key part of observing the Lord's Supper. Writing in a previous letter, the apostle stated, "But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord's body" (I Corinthians 11:28-29). Clearly, self-examination is serious business!

Consequently, this week promises to be a very helpful week for each of us. Our guest preacher, David Posey, will spend each of the studies walking us through important Biblical passages that will help us examine ourselves in key areas wherein each of us ask ourselves key questions like:

  • How do I examine myself to make sure I'm passing the temptation test? After all, the Bible tells us to endure temptations without giving into them, but that's hard!
    • (James 1:12).
  • The Bible stresses the importance of forgiving, but how can I make myself more pleasing to God and more ready to forgive?
  • A selfless, sacrificial attitude is what the Bible demands of me, but that's really hard! How can I be more focused on others rather than myself?

Each of these issues will be addressed and each of us will be made stronger by attending each of these studies. We're thankful to God for giving us His word which helps us to better ourselves and be more pleasing to Him. We'll look forward to the continual Christian tests and the growth which comes from turning to God for His assistance.