Catechism: Seeking Self-AwarenessSample

Think about a time when you have welcomed a critique of your actions.

Was it a coach who pointed out your stance or body position that was off?

Was it a friend who revealed that you tend to emphasize the negative rather than the positive?

Was it a teacher who redirected your argument in a paper?

What made the difference between your feeling judged and even hopeless to change and the sense of excitement to change something for a better outcome?

There are usually some elements that are essential for genuine and healthy self-examination.

The first is trust in the motivation of the person giving you the feedback. When you know their desire is for you to grow and strengthen, you don't view their assessment as a reason to be deflated or defeated.

The second is confidence that you are capable of making the change. Having a coach expect you to run a five-minute mile can be crushing, but one who is confident you can improve upon your personal best can provide you with tools you need to fulfill their expectation.

The third is an attitude of humility. When you recognize that there are areas in your life in need of adjustment, your spirit, heart, and ears are open for change.

So what inspires you to invite God to search you and point out those areas that are not in line with his purpose for you?

Probably these same factors.

Can you approach God in humility, recognizing that you are lost without his touch?

Can you trust God’s motivation in what he reveals to you as areas that need change?

Does he consistently provide you with an accurate reflection of who he knows you are as his beloved child?

Is the Bible filled with his promise to transform and renew your mind, motivations, and actions?

As you ask God to examine your heart today, you can dare to be completely honest as you trust that he will not only reveal your inner thoughts and areas of growth but also give you the power to be transformed.

• Has there been an opportunity where you have grown and changed because you were willing to ask for feedback?


• Which one of God’s promises reminds you of his love for you and his desire to see you set free? How does that inspire you to allow God to reveal what areas you need to change?