Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Self-Test

Examine yourselves to see whether you are living in the faith. (2 Corinthians 13:5 NRSV)

Honestly, there are days I don’t get a very good grade on this exam. When I look at my life, I see how I claim one thing but all too often do something else.

According to Dr. Henry Cloud, when your life does not match up with your beliefs, it’s an “integrity” issue. “Integrity” has to do with everything in your life—behavior and beliefs—lining up. This brings a congruency to who you are and how you live.

The area I see the most inconsistency in myself is in loving people. It’s easy to love those who love me back or those
whom I benefit from in some way. But those who are difficult or "contrary” in actions or attitude, I find hard to love. This wouldn’t be a problem—except for the fact that Jesus calls
me to love people…unconditionally.

I need Jesus to give me a greater love for people. I’m convinced it will only come as I begin to see people as Jesus does.

Here’s the most challenging thought…this is only one area. What about all the other areas in my life? I’m not sure I’d like to know the grade I’d receive if an examination was done on me.