8 questions to dig deeper by soul searching
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I cannot recall who or when this was shared with me, but I was recently going through these ideas and believe they are helpful for every Christian to ask.
Here are eight diagnostics to probe as you dig deeper in your discipleship.
1. A secret sense of pride:
An exalted feeling or view of your success or position. Perhaps because of your education, training, or even appearance—this reveals itself in an independent spirit.
2. Love of man and praise of people.
A secret fondness to be noticed is a manifest of "self-love." Love of supremacy. This often comes in one's conversation and may show up during public prayer time as well.
3. Stirring of anger or impatience.
We may sometimes call this "nervousness" or "Holy indignation." This comes in the category of "touch-sensitive spirit" where you resent and retaliate when disapproved or when confronted by issues. Do you throw sharp, heated flings at others when you are irritated?
4. Self-will
A stubborn or unteachable spirit. This shows in the argumentative, harsh sarcastic expression, or a driving commanding spirit. This holds a sense or disposition that criticizes others or picks the faults and point fingers at other people.
5. Carnal fear.
This is a sense of "fear of man" rather than "fear of God." There is a shrinking fear from those of wealth or position. There is a fear that someone will perhaps offend and push people away.
6. A jealous disposition
A secret spirit of envy shoots up in your heart. There is a sense or unpleasant sensation rather than an appreciation of success of others.
7. A dishonest, deceitful disposition.
The evading and covering of the WHOLE truth. When in wrongdoing, people tend to cover up the real faults of self and try to leave a better impression than the other person. This portrays a "false humility."
8. Unbelief.
A spirit of discouragement in the pressure and opposition of life. Often reveals itself in the lack of quietness before God and confidence in Christ. This becomes evident in a lack of faith and trust in God. Worry and complaining becomes the norm in this person's life.
What other questions would you add to the list?
 | Dr. Jonathan Hayashi earned his B.A. from Moody Bible Institute with a double concentration in Pastoral Ministry and Biblical Studies; a M.A., in Congregational Leadership from Moody Theological Seminary, and Doctorate of Educational Ministry in Biblical Counseling from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He presently serves on the Executive Committee at Southwest Baptist University (Bolivar, MO) and serves on the Board of Trustees at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as Senior Pastor at Northern Hills Baptist Church Holt, Missouri from 2020-2022. Learn More » |
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