January 2022: Keeping it Real, for REAL—A New Year Self-Exam
The Bible is filled with self-help tips aimed at providing insight to help me be better and do better. I like the one from the book of James that compares the Bible to a mirror. The scenario depicts a person looking into to the mirror, but forgetting what he looks like not making needed adjustments.
James 1:23-24 reminds us of this, "For if anyone is a hearer ofthe word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror;for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was."
All of us use a mirror. When I get up in the morning there are aspects of my physical appearance that need to be addressed—face needs washing; hair needs combing; teeth need brushing and my apparel must be neat and well-coordinated. Like everyone else, I look into the mirror—full lengthpreferably, to make sure that everything is in order.
What about my spiritual well-being? When and how do I check for that? Answer—Everyday and the Bible!
Yes, I have flaws and personal “isms” that require adjustment.The Bible is designed to tell me all about myself. My willingness to surrender to the Bible’s teachings will help me to develop and mature—becoming the best I can be.
Yes, the truth hurts. But in the hand of a Master, pain is atool designated to produces perfection.
So, in the event that there is something in my teeth or a stainon my dress, the Bible will ensure that I have the perfect tools to make the necessary adjustments to be dressed for perfect success. But first things first—I have to Read It!
SIS Challenge: Take some time to look into the mirror of your heart and into the Word of God. Ask God to provide insight that will help you to make the adjustments needed to walk into your intended purpose.