Archive for May, 2009

A brother recently gave me this list that is worthwhile to consider before taking the Lord’s Supper or Communion.  DW

Words and Relationships
1. Do I use words or have any relationships that fail to hallow God’s Name or hinder His  kingdom?
2. Do I fail to revere God in some of my words and relationships?
3. Have I spoken words that are critical, harsh or unkind? Do I often seem to offend others or hurt their feelings?
4. Have I exaggerated, overstated or lied in any of my words?
5. Do I use God’s name in any way other then prayer, praise or godly discussions? Have I at any time used words that are crude or unclean?
6. Do I tend to spout off opinions before I pray or even hear all the facts?
7. Have I committed any form of gossip, innuendo or slander? Have I spoken against people behind their backs?
8. Have I spoken words that are critical, negative and discouraging to others?
9. Is there anyone I have offended yet I have ignored God’s clear command to ask forgiveness and seek reconciliation? If you have neglected to address strained relationships, you are utterly out of fellowship with God. (Matthew 5:23-24) According to Scriptures, your prayers and power are seriously blocked!
10. Is there anyone against whom I still harbor the slightest anger or grudge? It is vital to realize your prayers and fellowship are blocked by any unforgiveness in your heart.
11. Do I have any relationships that are questionable or have the “appearance of evil?” Are some of my relationships improper? Do I have any conversations or rendezvous I wouldn’t want my spouse, parents or friends to know about (either in person, by Internet or phone?)
12. As a husband, am I acting as a faithful spiritual head of my home? As a wife, am I honoring God in my role as helpmate? Have I in any way dishonored or neglected my parents?
13. Have I been a part of any unresolved anger or division in my church? Have I waited on others to make the first move towards peace and love?
14. Do I disobey God’s command by showing little respect or reverence for those who lead my church?
15. Have I quenched God’s Spirit by placing my own personal preferences ahead of others in issues like worship or church policy? Have I made a big deal about petty issues such as sitting in a particular place, the location of my classroom or other matters equally small?
16. Have I exhibited pettiness by continual complaining and fault finding toward my church?
17. Would other church members mostly describe me as mature, loving, positive and faith-filled or somewhat complaining, divisive, quick-tempered and negative? In God’s eyes, little could be worse than being known as divisive, unkind and negative!

Sins of Commission and Omission
1. Am I more concerned about my comfort and desires than exalting the Name and Kingdom of God?
2. Have I committed idolatry by placing anyone or anything above God and kingdom service?
3. Do I commit sins of immorality by actions, thoughts or the things I view? (TV, movies, Internet, improper books, etc.)
4. Do I continue any habits that I know are wrong? (Gambling, places I frequent, or things that harm my body, etc.)
5. Have I said things that are harsh, unclean, or irreverent?
6. Do I waste time on things that should never take precedence over church or family? In other words, do I find time for everything except meaningful service to God?
7. Have I neglected significant regular time in God’s Word and prayer? In my typical day, do I make time for most everything except time with God? Have I settled for brief, casual devotions instead of fervent, God-seeking intercession?
8. Do I fail to abide in Christ by neglecting to let Him regularly examine my heart in deep cleansing?
9. Am I robbing God by failing to give offerings and help the poor?