To detect health problems before they become serious, doctors recommend a routine physical exam. We can do the same for our spiritual health by asking a few questions rooted in the great commandment Jesus referred to. (Mark 12:30)
Do I love God with all my heart because He loved me first? Which is stronger, my desire for earthly gain or the treasures that are mine in Christ? (Colossians 3:1). He desires that peace rule our hearts.
Do I love God with all my soul? Do I listen to God telling me who I am? Am I moving away from self-centred desires? (Colossians 3:5). Am I becoming more compassionate, kind, humble, gentle, and patient? (Colossians 3:12).
Do I love God with all my mind? Do I focus on my relationship with His Son or di I let my mind wander wherever it wants to go? (Colossians 3:2). Do my thoughts lead to problems or solutions? To unity or division? Forgiveness or revenge? (Colossians 3:13).
Do I love God with all my strength? Am I willing to be seen as weak so that God can show His strength on my behalf? (Colossians 3:17) Am I relying on His grace to be strong in His Spirit?
As we let “the message of Christ dwell among [us] richly… with all wisdom.” (Colossians 3:16), He will equip us to build each other up as we become spiritually fit and useful to Him.
Heavenly Father, when I rely on anything other than love in my efforts to initiate change in people, I am neglecting to love You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. I choose today to exchange my strength for Yours.
Special thank you to Julie Ackerman Link at Our Daily Bread for this article.
