31 But if we judged ourselves, we would not come under judgment.
Part of our daily life with the Lord is self-examination. We ought to allow the Word to be a mirror for our life and conduct. We are to be comparing our lives to Jesus’ life and making the needed corrections. We are called to be like God in His character. If a life is unexamined, it is hardly worth living. If we are on autopilot, who knows what course we are flying. We must be conscious and active in the course our life takes. The choices we make today do create our future. That is why judging ourselves is important. We are to be listening to the Holy Spirit’s whispers. He wants, he earnestly desires to guide and direct our lives. But we must be willing to allow the Word to speak to us, even if that word is a word of correction. We usually listen to a word of correction from the Lord much more readily than a word from some earthly voice. We have a tendency to put up a defensive wall when a human being points out our faults. We suspect their motives. We wonder what their angle is. We deflect and defend. But when we are in the habit of listening to the Holy Spirit and He speaks a gentle word of correction, we know His motive is our long term growth. He has our eternity at heart. Although it can be hard to hear, we at least know He is on our side. He gains nothing from our obedience. We are the winners. So next time the Lord speaks a word of correction, move in His direction. Take time to examine what you do and why. Allow the Word to be the mirror. When something in the mirror does not match with your perception, stop and examine the difference. Then make the adjustment so that your reflection matches the Word. That will be pleasing in His sight, and will be for our benefit.
The Arnold Journey 