A Process for Self Reflection

Ryan Andrews asks if the changes we have made over the recent past have produced expected and desired results. He asserts that with the Spring Holy Days around the corner, now is the time to undertake spiritual reflection. This requires that we understand where we are in context of spiritual things; e.g., the fruits of the Spirit. Spiritual reflection should not be only a mechanical process engaged in immediately prior to Passover, but year round. How many thoughts and actions do we think or do in a day? What percentage of those are sinful?

The purpose of self-reflection is not for improving our stats, but rather for turning to and pursuing a relationship with God. The act of engaging in a process of reflection and evaluation against the standard God sets is a useful undertaking. God should not have to force us to change, but we should actively pursue improvement. We cannot develop the fruits of the Spirit on our own. Our relationship with Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is the foundation by which our relationship with God can begin to heal.

Helpful self-evaluation includes: (1) Hazard Assessment—identifying those areas in our lives that are weaknesses; (2) Risk Identification—identifying consequences if the hazard goes wrong; and (3) Change Management—looking for areas of change that will avoid hazards and reduce risks. Engaging preventative change processes will reduce exposure and bad outcomes. Having a framework to tackle it is the first step. The process does not exist in a vacuum—our relationship is critical. Start preparing for the Passover right now.

Keywords:
I Corinthians 11:28-29 – Fruits of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22-24 – James 5:16-17 – Preparation – Roman 8:5 – Self-reflection – Spring Holy Days