Spiritual Workout: Self-Examination – Strength Training for Character

 

 Day 5
 Self-Examination – Strength Training for Character
“Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.” — 2 Corinthians 13:5

Self-examination is a vital part of our daily spiritual workout. Just as physical strength training develops muscles, self-examination builds character and spiritual strength.

I must regularly examine my actions, thoughts, motivations, goals, words, habits, and even how I spend my leisure time. But this is not a casual glance—it must be done in the light of God's Word, with sincerity, reverence, and a willingness to change.

Self-examination protects us from hypocrisy, pride, and spiritual carelessness. When I honestly confront my sins and weaknesses, it leads to repentance, humbles me, stirs a desire to change, and deepens my prayers. It teaches me to forgive others more easily, to flee from temptation, and to stay alert spiritually.

When I discover growth and progress through self-examination, it strengthens my faith, fuels my gratitude, and increases my joy.

Self-examination also helps us detect the enemy’s traps and avoid them. It renews our minds by identifying harmful patterns of thinking and replacing them with God’s truth.

So, self-examination is a necessity.

 Fitness Parallels

Mirror Drill:
Just as athletes check their form in a mirror, we must examine ourselves through the mirror of Scripture (James 1:23–25).
▪ Spot Your Form: Compare your thoughts and motives to God’s Word.
▪ Correct Imbalances: Repentance is like dropping pride to lift humility.
▪ Isolate Weak Areas: Identify one sin and do focused “repentance reps.”

Flexibility Parallel:
Stretching prevents injury; humility prevents hardening. When God reveals sin, surrender stretches us toward grace, keeping our hearts soft and responsive to Him.

 Reflection
▪ What did I notice about my inner life today when I looked through Scripture’s mirror?
▪ Is there a “weak muscle” in my character that needs focused training in repentance and renewal?

Topical meditation

 May 29th, 2025