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The Sweetness of Christ Easter Egg Hunt

This Easter egg hunt invites kids to savor the mouthwatering yumminess of Easter candy while providing an entertaining reminder about the enduring sweetness of Christ’s sacrifice for us.  

The Candy

Below is a list of Easter egg candy that we’ve matched with a related Bible verse that exemplifies the depth of Christ’s sacrifice, and a short description as to how the candy and verses are connected. 

Fudge
Verse: Romans 8:11-And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.
Connection: With its rich and indulgent flavor, fudge is like the spiritual nourishment and vitality that we receive through the Holy Spirit, made possible by Jesus’ resurrection. 

Toffee
Verse: 1 Corinthians 15:58-Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Connection: Similar to how toffee requires firmness to withstand pressure, we are encouraged to stand firm in faith and serve the Lord. 

Candy Necklace
Verse: Ephesians 2:8-9-For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.
Connection: Just as the colorful candy beads are connected to form a necklace, we are connected by God's grace through faith in Jesus’ resurrection and not by our own works or merit.

Butterscotch 
Verse: 1 Peter 1:3-4-Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you.
Connection: The warm, rich, comforting flavor of butterscotch symbolizes the comfort and assurance of living hope and eternal inheritance.

Fruit Snacks
Verse: Galatians 5:22-23-But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
Connection: Fruit snacks' assortment of flavors and colors are like the fruits of the Spirit that we receive through Jesus’ resurrection.

Chocolate Bunnies
Verse: 1 Corinthians 15:22-For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.
Connection: Bunnies have a lot of babies, which symbolizes new life. In the same way, chocolate bunnies are a reminder of the eternal life offered through Jesus' death and resurrection.

Chocolate Lambs
Verse: John 1:29-The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!”
Connection: Chocolate lambs represent Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb of God.

Saltwater Taffy
Verse: Colossians 3:1-Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
Connection: The chewy and stretchy consistency of saltwater taffy symbolizes how we can be pulled and shaped to do good when we follow Jesus’ example.

Candy Crosses
Verse: Colossians 2:15-And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.
Connection: At first, the cross stood as a symbol of shame and defeat. But Jesus’ resurrection turned it into a symbol of triumph and redemption. 

Chocolate Truffles
Verse: 1 Corinthians 15:20-21-But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.
Connection: Chocolate truffles represent the richness of life that we receive through Jesus’ resurrection. Just as the first fruits represent the beginning of a harvest, His resurrection is the first of many to come, promising eternal life to all who believe.

Sweet and Sour Candy
Verse: 1 Peter 1:8-9-Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
Connection: The combination of sweet and sour flavors reminds us of the value in remaining faithful. Just as the first taste of sourness gives away to sweetness, the challenges we face in life ultimately turn to everlasting joy. 

Jelly Beans 
Verse: John 3:16-For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Connection: The variety of colors and flavors in jelly beans are like God’s all-encompassing love for all people and forgiveness for all sins. 

Cotton Candy
Verse: Psalm 30:5-For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.
Connection: The fluffy light texture of cotton candy is like the cheerfulness and joy that happens the morning of Jesus’ resurrection. The transition from weeping to rejoicing in the verse helps us remember to find hope and joy in Jesus’ gift, after the sorrow of His crucifixion. 

Chocolate Easter Eggs
Verse: Matthew 28:6-He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.
Connection: The hollowness of the egg is like the tomb that had been found empty. 

Hard Candies
Verse: Luke 24:6-7-He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ 
Connection: Hard candy, with its durability and long-lasting sweetness, conveys the enduring truth of Jesus' resurrection. 

Easter Candy Corn
Verse: 1 Peter 2:24-He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”
Connection: The three layers of color are like the process of transformation and renewal through Christ's atonement, moving from darkness to light, sin to salvation.

Black Licorice
Verse: Acts 2:24-But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him.
Connection: Licorice, with its dark color and strong flavor, symbolizes the darkness and agony of death that Jesus experienced. Yet, despite its strong taste, black licorice can be an enjoyable treat. Likewise, Christ’s death brings hope for the wonderful life that comes after death. 

Easter Egg Marshmallow Candy
Verse: Romans 5:8-But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 
Connection: The marshmallow middle of Easter egg marshmallow candies is like the sin of humanity and separation from God. Even though we all have sinned, God chose to show us love by sending Jesus to die for our sins. The chocolate coating is a reminder of the protective covering of Christ's sacrifice, which surrounds us. 

Candy Canes
Verse: 1 Corinthians 15:57-But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Connection: The candy canes shape resembles the letter "J" for Jesus, and the colors red and white are like his blood and purity. Together, they represent Jesus’ victory over sin and death. 

Rock Candy
Verse: Matthew 27:51-At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split.
Connection: Recalling the extraordinary events surrounding Christ's crucifixion and resurrection, Rock candy, is like the splitting of rocks at the moment of Jesus' death.

Easter M&M's
Verse: Mark 16:6-“Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him.” 
Connection: The bright and colorful candy-coated shells symbolize the bright and joyous feelings accompanying the celebration of Jesus' resurrection.

Setting Up the Hunt

For this Easter egg hunt, you’ll fill plastic eggs with the aforementioned candies and the matching Bible verses. Hide the eggs, and have the kids search for them. After all of the eggs have been found, gather the kids into a group and introduce the connectedness between the sweetness of Easter candy and the sweetness that comes from Christ’s sacrifice. Feel free to use this as the introduction or come up with one of your own:
Jesus' sacrifice is like the sweetest candy imaginable, because it shows just how much He cares about each and every one of us. He knew that we all make mistakes and sometimes do things that aren't right. But instead of getting mad at us, he chose to help us in the biggest way possible. He loves us so much that he wanted to make sure that we could always feel loved and forgiven. So He allowed Himself to take the punishments for all of the bad things all of us have done. Because of what he did, we can have hope and know that we're never alone, no matter what happens. So, even though Easter egg candy is tasty, Jesus’ gift is the sweetest thing ever and gives us lasting strength and keeps us going forever.
Next, have the kids take turns opening their eggs and read the correlating Bible verse. After the verse has been read, share with the kids the connection between the verse and the candy. Encourage an active discussion with the kids about the meaning of Easter by asking questions and having them share personal insights. 

Click here for a printable version of the Bible verses to place into the eggs and the introduction with the explanation for each candy.  

We hope you enjoy this fun, engaging, and Christ-centered spin throughout your Easter celebrations!
-Torrance Church of Christ

Teachings from Unsung Figures: Loyalty in Times of Trouble

In the shadow of adversity, loyalty shines brightly through the lives of individuals who remain steadfast in their faith and commitment. One such exemplary figure from biblical history is Zadok, a priest whose unwavering loyalty to God and his anointed king, David, serves as a timeless testament to the significance of faithfulness throughout challenges. As we sift through Zadok’s story, we uncover a life of personal allegiance and insights into the indispensable role of loyalty to your faith. 

Who is Zadok?

Appointed as high priest of the Tabernacle by David himself, Zadok’s significance transcends religious affairs, serving as both a key advisor and spiritual leader within David’s court. Emerging as a close and trusted confidant to David, Zadok played a pivotal role in guiding the king through the complexities of leadership and the challenges of governance; deeply intertwining the religious and political landscape of the kingdom.

Instances of Loyalty

Within the intricate web of court intrigues and power struggles throughout David's reign, Zadok was considerably tested, encountering the daunting challenge of remaining faithful among conflicting loyalties. Despite the trials, personal risks, and potential repercussions, Zadok's loyalty remained resolute, providing unshakable support in the monarch's bleakest moments. 

Absalom’s Uprising: Plunging the Nation into a state of civil unrest and uncertainty, Absalom’s uprising is marked by familial betrayal and political turmoil. Fueled by the potent mix of resentment and ambition, David’s charismatic and zealous son Absalom orchestrated rebellion, seeking to seize the throne for himself. Cunningly garnering support from disaffected factions and exploiting grievances against his father's rule, his rebellion posed a direct threat to David’s authority. 

During this time, Zadok’s devotion was revealed through a series of proactive and decisive actions. As Absalom's rebellion gained ground and momentum, Zadok found himself at a critical crossroads. Yet, even in the face of mounting pressure and uncertainty, Zadok refused to be swayed by the shifting tides of political allegiance, recognizing David as God's anointed king.

Knowing the king needed to flee the city, Zadok actively participated in facilitating David’s escape; assisting him in evading Absalom's advancing forces. Risking his own safety to stand by the side of his sovereign, Zadok chose to accompany David on his flight from Jerusalem. On the retreat, Zadok willingly bore the responsibility of transporting the Ark of the Covenant, a charge that symbolized the presence and favor of God with David, reinforcing his legitimacy as the rightful king.  Zadok faithfully safeguarded the Ark’s sanctity, ensuring its safekeeping and eventual restoration to its rightful place in Jerusalem.

Zadok provided invaluable spiritual support to David during this tumultuous period. As a trusted advisor and confidant, Zadok stood by David, offering counsel and encouragement, guiding him through the emotional and spiritual challenges of facing his son in battle, and acting as a source of strength and reassurance to the beleaguered king. 

David’s Succession: As David's reign neared its end, the question of who would succeed him loomed large and the kingdom teetered on the brink of uncertainty, sparking potential conflicts and contenders vying for power. Among the hopefuls, Adonijah, David’s son, attempted to capitalize on his position as the eldest surviving son and the presumptive heir apparent in the absence of clear royal decrees. Undeterred by the absence of his father's blessing and David's prior promise to Bathsheba that Solomon would succeed him, Adonijah pursued to assert his claim to the throne through a preemptive coronation ceremony, gathering supporters and gaining momentum for his bid for kingship.

Throughout the disorder, Zadok boldly stood by Solomon's side, effectively warranting the legitimate succession of the Davidic dynasty. When David publicly proclaimed Solomon as his successor, Zadok’s loyal endorsement unfolded as he strategically rallied support among the priesthood and the people for Solomon's ascension, leveraging his influence and credibility to ensure a smooth transition of power. During the ceremonial process, Zadok lent his authority as a high priest to validate Solomon's legitimacy and affirm Solomon's divine appointment as the rightful heir to the throne.

The Catalyst of Zadok’s Loyalty

Zadok’s devotion to David constitutes the tangible manifestation of his loyalty to God and underlies the entirety of Zadok’s loyalty we’ve outlined so far. 

Through the chaos of political maneuverings and power struggles, Zadok reverently preserved the sanctity of God's presence among His people. Zadok committed himself to upholding the principles of justice, righteousness, and mercy that are central to God's character. Aligning his actions with God's commandments, he demonstrated moral integrity and spiritual leadership, aiding his ability to carry out his religious duties as a priest. His steadfast commitment to his vocation strengthened the spiritual fabric of the nation and offered hope and inspiration for all who sought refuge in the Lord during times of peril.

His role as a priest proved to be a benefit for himself, too. Despite the considerable allure of self-preservation, Zadok remained rooted in faith, choosing to place his trust in God's plan and purpose for the nation of Israel. His intimate relationship with God allowed him to draw upon sacred strength, guidance, and protection. 

Zadok's loyalty to David was not only a matter of political allegiance but also stemmed from his deep-seated faith in God's sovereignty and providence. In ancient Israelite society, the king was considered to be God's chosen representative on earth, entrusted with the responsibility of leading and governing the nation according to God's will. Understanding the great significance of David's reign and the divine mandate upon his life, Zadok’s faithful service to David is an acknowledgment and commitment to supporting God’s plan. During David’s succession, again, Zadok upheld God’s will by supporting Solomon as the rightful successor to the throne; ultimately leading to the fulfillment of the covenant God had established with David. 

Final Thoughts

Playing a crucial role in religious affairs and serving as a trusted advisor to the king. Zadok stood as an unshakeable bastion of support, opting to stand by David's side even in the face of grave peril. A paragon of continuity and stability, Zadok’s life serves as a compelling testament to the enduring value of loyalty within one's faith. Zadok's loyalty was not confined to seasons of ease and prosperity but was tested and proven true among the crucible of adversity and personal sacrifice that besieged the kingdom.

In the face of adversity, Zadok's resolve only grew stronger, his steady commitment to righteousness and justice guiding him through the darkest of hours. His loyalty and support proved instrumental in maintaining the security of David's reign, simultaneously upholding the sacred covenant between God and his chosen people, leaving behind a legacy of faithfulness for generations to come.

Zadok teaches us that true loyalty transcends mere words, manifesting in sacrificial service, unwavering devotion, and resolute allegiance. As we reflect on his legacy, heed the call to reflect on the depth of our loyalty to God, recognizing that true faithfulness is beyond a sentiment but a steadfast resolve that permeates every aspect of our lives. Let us strive to emulate Zadok's loyalty, and pledge to walk faithfully in His ways, regardless of the challenges we may face, knowing that in doing so, we honor God and embody the essence of true discipleship.

-Torrance Church of Christ

 

135 Questions Every Christian Should Ask Themself to Evaluate Their Faith

The Importance of Reflecting and Evaluating your Faith

Taking the time to deliberate on your faith is imperative for your spiritual well-being and growth. Consistently evaluating your faith offers you the opportunity to really get to know and understand where you stand as a Christian. It can provide insight into where you stand solidly in your beliefs and relationship with God. Conversely, you will be able to see areas that are lacking, and are in need of focus and polishing up. Moreover, reflecting on your faith affords you the freedom to exercise awareness, allowing you to better take notice of God’s presence in your daily life. 

Taking a hard look at yourself is a valuable tool that can be used to enhance your spiritual development. We have assembled a list of questions every Christian should ask themself in order to get down to the nitty-gritty and truly understand where they stand in their faith. 

The Questions and Suggestions About Answering Them

• These questions allow you to examine your faith, beliefs, and stances. Some of the questions may require much vulnerability on your end, causing you to feel overly exposed and uncomfortable. Feel free to skip over any question that makes you feel this way, but take note that answering these questions will provide the greatest insight into your strengths and weaknesses. It is in our discomfort that we latch onto the ability to grow. 

• Consistency is key. Create and keep to a schedule where you can set aside the time to routinely check in and ruminate on your faith. This can be done weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or whatever works best for you. You can break up the questions and answer 3 (or however many you’d like) of them at a time, according to your schedule. 
• Sometimes it is too difficult for us to be fully honest with ourselves. Turn to God and ask Him to show us where in our lives need improvement and guidance on how to make it possible.
• You can answer a question once, write your answer in a journal, and come back to it at a later date to compare and assess how you feel now. Tracking your answers is a fantastic way to chart your growth. 
• It is expected that your answers will fluctuate over time. Don’t let that deter you from working on your spiritual health. 
• Some of the questions may not seem like they are targeted toward your faith. They’re in there so you can analyze who you are as a whole person. While some of the questions seem irrelevant, they aim to give you a deeper understanding of the various roles you take on each day and how your faith factors into them. 
• Many of the questions can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no”. Try to explore your answers further. 
• Remember! Pray to God for guidance and help in any area you feel you are falling short. 

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1. Would I be disappointed in someone else for behaving in a manner that I behave?
2. Why do I follow Christ?
3. Is there evidence that contradicts God’s existence?
4. Do I think all sins are equal or are some worse than others?
5. Do I tend to go against my values and conform to the group?
6. Is there anybody I have not forgiven?
7. Am I comfortable praying out loud?
8. Is my faith a component of my personality?
9. Why does God want a relationship with me?
10. Am I a good example?
11. What role does the Bible play in my life?
12. What makes God, God?
13. Am I the same person around others as I am by myself?
14. Am I the kind of person that I would like to be friends with?
15. What kind of people do I associate with?
16. What is my purpose in this life?
17. I know the Bible is historically reliable because…
18. What do I pray for?
19. Do I strive to be more Christlike every day?
20. Do I stop and give a dollar or two to a person with a sign on a corner? Why or why not?
21. Do I show patience?
22. What do I expect from others?
23. Do I hold grudges?
24. What do I do to promote spiritual growth?
25. What are my values?
26. Something I do to stay true to my values is….
27. Do I share any of the same traits with Christ?
28. Do I serve others without complaint?
29. What are my talents?
30. Three ways I pray for others are:
31. Sometimes I disobey God when….
32. Am I easily irritated?
33. Am I content with what I have or do I find myself always wanting more?
34. How do I know God is listening?
35. One thing I would tell a non-believer who was interested in learning more would be….
36. My favorite thing about church is….
37. Do I put others first?
38. My favorite book in the Bible is….      Because….
39. Do my thoughts reflect those of Christ?
40. Is there someone in my life who doesn’t respect my relationship with God?
41. Is it difficult for me to admit to my wrongdoings?
42. How do I measure my spiritual development?
43. I know prayer works because….
44. If I were to meet Jesus today, what would I be ashamed of?
45. How would I like to be remembered most in life? What steps do I need to take to get there?
46. How often do I pray?
47. Do my actions and words place God as my first priority?
48. How much effort am I putting into my relationship with God?
49. Do I ever experience doubts about my faith? 
50. Do I enjoy praying?
51. Do I embellish my stories?
52. How much does His Word influence my decisions?
53. How have I experienced feeling God’s presence?
54. Is it enough to only pray for someone in need when I know I can serve them in another way too?
55. How has my faith been influenced?
56. How do I show praise to God?
57. Do I put others' opinions above God’s?
58. How do I show gratitude to God?
59. How do I say no to temptation?
60. Do I truly trust God?
61. Something that inspires me is….
62. How do I discern whether or not something is a temptation?
63. How do I ask for forgiveness?
64. Have I read the entire Bible?
65. Are there limits to God’s grace?
66. Are there any truths I am ignoring?
67. Do my actions reflect those of Christ?
68. Do I view myself as worthy of forgiveness or am I unable to push past guilt?
69. Do I uplift and encourage others?
70. Why are my values important to me?
71. Who do I connect to most in the Bible? Why?
72. Do I trust others with ease?
73. When I repent, do I make a commitment to not repeat the sin?
74. What steps do I take to study the Bible beyond just reading it?
75. Do I unconsciously cast judgment on others by saying or thinking, “I would never do that”?
76. Do I try to repair broken relationships?
77. Do I take my faith into consideration when consuming media? (TV, movies, music, podcasts, books, etc.) 
78. Do I surround myself with those who influence and encourage me to stay true to my values?
79. Am I overly critical of anyone in my life?
80. Am I open to receiving God’s answers?
81. Do I show my real self to others or do I put on a performance?
82. I know my relationship with God is at risk when….
83. Do I show kindness and respect to those who don’t show it to me?
84. Do I share my faith with others?
85. Am I humble?
86. Am I hiding from the purpose God has given me?
87. One unanswered prayer of mine is….       I think it is unanswered because….
88. Do I self-sabotage?
89. Am I able to push away negative thoughts and feelings, instead opting to focus on the positive?
90. Am I able to confidently stand up and defend my faith?
91. Do I recognize the silver lining in situations?
92. Do I often find myself judging others? 
93. Do I minimize my mistakes?
94. What benefits do I get from praying?
95. Do I keep my promises?
96. Do I justify my actions?
97. Am I double-minded?
98. Am I doing my part to fulfill God’s purpose?
99. Do I interact daily with God?
100. Do I hold myself accountable for my mistakes and wrongdoings?
101. Do I have to always be correct?
102. Have I centered my life around God?
103. Do my words reflect those of Christ?
104. Do I have meaningful relationships with my church family?
105. Do I have healthy habits?
106. Do I have a problem with authority?
107. Do I allow day-to-day life to interfere with my relationship with God?
108. Do I accept corrections or am I defensive?
109. Does my attitude align with my faith?
110. Are there times I feel undeserving of His love?
111. Are there some things I don’t think I need to repent for?
112. Do I love money to the point of idolizing it?
113. Do I look down on others?
114. Are there any aspects of my life where I can see the devil planting temptation?
115. Are there any aspects of my life where I am prideful?
116. Do I see the Bible as figurative or literal?
117. Do I respond to everyone with love?
118. Are my priorities in the correct places?
119. In social situations, do I stand up for what is right?
120. Are my actions driven by seeking approval from someone else?
121. Am I trustworthy?
122. Do I gossip?
123. Do I focus on what I don’t like about someone, refusing to see the positive in them?
124. Do I feel resentment toward anyone?
125. Am I too busy to notice those in my community who need help?
126. Am I sorry for all of my sins? 
127. Why do I attend church service?
128. Am I looking for ways to serve others?
129. Am I fulfilling my purpose?
130. Who can I share my testimony with?
131. Where can I improve my faith?
132. Am I aware of Satan in my life?
133. If I could change one thing about church, it would be…
134. Do I always turn to God for help?
135. Am I a fake forgiver?

Scriptures Emphasizing the Need for Reflection

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror, and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.

Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. 

James 1:22-26

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As water reflects a face, so a man's heart reflects the man.

Proverbs 27:19

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"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. “Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!

Matthew 7:7-11

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Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Romans 12:2

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Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.

Romans 8:12-13

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As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.

1 Peter 1:14

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How many wrongs and sins have I committed Show me my offense and my sin.

Job 13:23

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“I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.”

Jeremiah 17:10

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Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.

Lamentations 3:40

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But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Galatians 5:22-26

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Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.

Romans 8:5-8

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Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?

2 Corinthians 13:5

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Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.

See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalm 139:23-24

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If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves. Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load. Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word should share all good things with their instructor.

Galatians 6:3-6

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There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.

Luke 12:2-3

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Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech. They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

1 Peter 3:9-12

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This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word is not in us.

1 John 1:5-10

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Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters

Colossians 3:23

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To Conclude

Scheduling time for regular evaluation is an effective instrument that positively promotes your spiritual journey. It grants you the chance to pinpoint your position in your faith to develop an invaluable awareness and discernment allowing for a deeper and honest look past your perception of yourself. Reflection assists in assuring your actions, thoughts, and words are in accordance with your values. Seek out the guidance of the Lord to better understand and accept your shortcomings and how to navigate through them. He wants to help keep you on the path of righteousness. 

-Torrance Church of Christ