Thoughts for the Day

Praise the Lord!
Happy are those who fear the Lord,
who greatly delight in his commandments....

They rise in the darkness as a light for the upright;
they are gracious, merciful, and righteous.
It is well with those who deal generously and lend,
who conduct their affairs with justice.
For the righteous will never be moved;
they will be remembered for ever.
They are not afraid of evil tidings;
their hearts are firm, secure in the Lord.
Their hearts are steady, they will not be afraid;
in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.
They have distributed freely, they have given to the poor;
their righteousness endures for ever.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

In the same way that we have periodic checkups with dentists or doctors to make sure our physical health is ok, we also need to regularly reflect on how we are performing spiritually. Are there things we can do to remedy areas of weakness, that will help us become stronger.

Psalm 112 could be used to review our Christian life. Look at the list of things a good man or woman should do:- delight in God's word; live a good life; be generous to others; act justly; and care for the poor.Ask yourself, can you improve on these, with God's help?

Alternatively you might like to ask yourself the following*, and mark "Yes", "No", or "Could do better":

• Do I love God with all my heart, soul and mind?
• Am I actively serving God?
• Have I shared my faith with someone new in the last year?
• Am I forgiving others?
• Am I helping the poor and disadvantage?

Finally, offer your answers to God, and ask for His help to improve.

* Suggestions largely from the C.S. Lewis Institute, Annual Spiritual Checkup .

Heavenly Father,
all too often we meander along as Christians,
taking the easy path,
and not really noticing if we are growing spiritually.
Help us to stop for a moment,
to re-evaluate our Christian life.
Help us to be honest,
and to make changes
so that we continue to grow spiritually.
Amen.