“Keep
testing whether you are in the faith; keep proving what you yourselves are.” -2
Corinthians 13:5
In many fields
of employment, recertification on a recurring basis is necessary to prove that
a person is still capable and qualified to perform a job. Added in these
sessions, are whatever new techniques have been developed so that the person
can be as efficient and proficient as possible.
We
likewise need regular recertification to prove ourselves. Reflect on the kings
of ancient Israel—how these got sloppy in their adherence to Jehovah’s
direction. One specific example of this is King Solomon (David’s son). When he
started out, his honest and earnest prayer and intent was to
do right in God’s eyes. However, as time passed, his resolve was not so
strong. At the time of his death, his record of disobedience was both
sad and surprising, given his background and initial devotion.
Indeed
just as professionals can get sloppy in their work, just as the kings of Israel
got sloppy in their leading the people, just so can we get sloppy in our
loyalty to God, making excuses for our lack of devotion and obedience. But how
do we “keep testing” ourselves? (This testing is not like the tests I've
written about before.) The obvious primary way is to reflect on our current
life-path and examine it against the admonition given in scripture. Two major
ways to do that is through our daily Bible reading and through preparing and
participating in congregation meetings. In both of those cases,
self-examination of where we really stand and what improvements can be made
will help us ensure we are not getting sloppy. We then "prove" who we are by our sharpened/renewed spiritual vigor (zeal) and integrity.
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