Examining Your Own Heart before judgement

 Examining Your Own Heart

– A Path to True Salvation

Introduction

Life is a journey, and our spiritual walk requires constant self-examination. Many times, we focus on the faults of others while ignoring our own shortcomings. However, Jesus teaches us to first look within before pointing fingers at others. This sermon will guide us on how to pursue personal salvation, focusing on self-reflection rather than judgment.

1. Examine Yourself Before Judging Others

One of the most powerful lessons Jesus taught is found in Matthew 7:3-5 (NIV):
"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye."

This passage reminds us that before we criticize or correct others, we must first correct ourselves. Many believers spend time analyzing the sins of others while ignoring their own faults. True salvation begins with self-examination.

2. Work Out Your Own Salvation

Paul gives a serious charge in Philippians 2:12 (NKJV):
"Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling."

Salvation is personal. It is a daily commitment to live according to God’s will. Instead of focusing on what others are doing wrong, we should focus on strengthening our relationship with Christ. This involves prayer, repentance, and obedience to God’s Word.

3. The Danger of a Judgmental Spirit

Jesus warned about judging others in Luke 6:37 (NIV):
"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven."

A judgmental spirit not only harms relationships but also affects our own spiritual growth. Instead of condemning others, we should extend grace and forgiveness just as God has shown us mercy.

4. The Mirror of God’s Word

James gives a powerful analogy in James 1:23-25 (NIV):
"Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do."

The Bible is a mirror that reveals our true spiritual condition. Instead of using it to judge others, we should use it to transform ourselves.

5. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Self-Examination

David prayed in Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV):
"Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."

A true believer asks God to reveal their weaknesses and guide them in the path of righteousness. The Holy Spirit convicts us and leads us toward a life that pleases God.

Conclusion: Seek Personal Growth in Christ

Instead of spending time correcting others, let us focus on growing spiritually. We must ask ourselves:

• Am I truly saved?
• Am I working out my salvation with fear and trembling?
• Am I allowing God's Word to transform me?

As we strive to walk in righteousness, let us remember Jesus' words: "First take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye."

May we seek personal salvation and self-examination, allowing God to mold us into His image. Amen.