Like many, I enjoy going for a walk, at the end of a long and busy day. It helps me decompress and unwind. And while I sometimes bike and run; I find that by taking a peaceful walk I can easily commune with God.
The concept of “walking with God” is not a new one. Scripture provides many different examples of individuals who also walked with God, albeit, not exactly as I described above. Nevertheless, the implication is there.
As an added bonus, walking with God can be utilized in different ways. It can be a talk-therapeutic session or an introspective self-examination. I briefly described how I apply the former, now we’ll check out the latter.
Without question, as believers in Jesus Christ we should aspire to live in a manner that is pleasing to God. This includes bringing our actions, thoughts, and intentions into line with Scriptural precepts.
Thus, “walking with God” implies a continuous process of introspection, contriteness (repentance), and maturation in holiness. As alluded to, the idea of self-evaluating is firmly rooted in Scripture (2 Corinthians 13:5).
This verse emphasizes why self-examination is necessary if we are to verify the authenticity and vitality of our faith. We may even find, thanks to some introspection, that a little re-direction, or realigning of our faith is needed (Lamentations 3:40).
How can we apply this self-evaluating walk with God? Surprisingly, you may already be using some of these practical actions in your life!
- The use of regular prayer cannot be stressed enough as a method of seeking God's will (Psalm 139:23-24).
- Soak up as much of the Word of God as you can through Bible study and/or reading (Hebrews 4:12).
- Seek the guidance and help of other believers; as they can be an excellent source of encouragement and harmonizing your priorities (Proverbs 27:17).
- Own up to and confess your sins; and ask God for forgiveness and the resolve to change (1 John 1:9)
A self-evaluating walk with God can be demanding because we naturally lean toward pride and false-belief (Jeremiah 17:9). But we can be heartened by the promise of His grace and the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit (Philippians 1:6).
Only be reassessing and correcting ourselves with biblical truths can we increase in faith, sanctity, and love; thereby exhibiting the characteristics of God in our daily lives and toward others (Ephesians 5:2).
One final thought, though no one ever said this was going to be easy, self-checking, or evaluating our walk with God is vital if we're to grow spiritually and form an intimate relationship with Him.
"I am weak but Thou art strong;
Jesus, keep me from all wrong;
I'll be satisfied as long
As I walk, let me walk close to Thee." - from "Just a Closer Walk With Thee," traditional gospel song
Scripture: Deuteronomy 8:6; Micah 6:8; Galatians 5:16; Colossians 1:10; 1 John 2:6
Prayer: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight, Amen" - Proverbs 3:5-6
May God be with you,
Sophie
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