What does the Bible say about self-examination?

Self-examination is a crucial aspect of the Christian life, reflecting the call to assess one’s affections towards Christ. The Apostle Paul encourages believers to examine themselves to see whether they are in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). This practice helps individuals understand their deeper feelings towards the Saviour — whether they are indifferent or filled with love and desire for Him. A genuine relationship with Christ requires recognizing His importance in our lives and feeling an essential need for communion with Him in our pursuit of happiness and fulfillment.

Through self-examination, believers can gauge their spiritual health, acknowledging both their shortcomings and the beauty of Christ as the ultimate desire. It shapes our faith and deepens our appreciation of the Gospel, as we explore how we view Christ, our reactions to His revelations, and our longing to be with Him in eternity. Joy in the relationship with Christ arises from perceiving His loveliness and recognizing Him as the source of all joy and glory.