Examining the Heart
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way. – Psalm 139:23-24
Encountering Jesus always involves an examination of the heart. When the disciples heard that one of them would betray Him, their assumptions crumbled, and fear surfaced. This was not just about Judas. It was about every heart at the table.
We often read this story and think, “I would never do that.” We assume we would stay faithful. We assume we would stand strong. But seasons of pressure reveal what comfort often hides.
When life is smooth, faith feels easy. When life becomes uncertain, faith is tested. The disciples had followed Jesus for years, witnessed miracles, and heard truth firsthand. Yet when the moment of testing arrived, fear overpowered faith.
This is why Jesus allows examination. Not to shame us, but to expose our need for grace. The question is not whether we are capable of failure. We are. The question is whether we will depend on God’s strength or trust our own confidence.
Examination invites humility. It reminds us that spiritual strength is not about willpower. It is about surrender. The disciples’ question, “Surely not I, Lord?” should lead us to a deeper prayer. “Lord, search my heart. Strengthen my faith. Keep me close when doubt creeps in.”
Jesus knows what is in the heart before we do. He knows where we are weak. He knows where fear hides. And He still invites us to the table.
God uses moments of examination to shape us. He does not expose our weakness to condemn us, but to transform us. The heart that is willing to be searched is the heart that can be strengthened.
When assumptions fall apart, let examination draw you closer to Christ. Let it deepen your dependence. Let it remind you that faith is not proven in comfort, but refined in crisis.
Encountering Jesus always involves an examination of the heart. When the disciples heard that one of them would betray Him, their assumptions crumbled, and fear surfaced. This was not just about Judas. It was about every heart at the table.
We often read this story and think, “I would never do that.” We assume we would stay faithful. We assume we would stand strong. But seasons of pressure reveal what comfort often hides.
When life is smooth, faith feels easy. When life becomes uncertain, faith is tested. The disciples had followed Jesus for years, witnessed miracles, and heard truth firsthand. Yet when the moment of testing arrived, fear overpowered faith.
This is why Jesus allows examination. Not to shame us, but to expose our need for grace. The question is not whether we are capable of failure. We are. The question is whether we will depend on God’s strength or trust our own confidence.
Examination invites humility. It reminds us that spiritual strength is not about willpower. It is about surrender. The disciples’ question, “Surely not I, Lord?” should lead us to a deeper prayer. “Lord, search my heart. Strengthen my faith. Keep me close when doubt creeps in.”
Jesus knows what is in the heart before we do. He knows where we are weak. He knows where fear hides. And He still invites us to the table.
God uses moments of examination to shape us. He does not expose our weakness to condemn us, but to transform us. The heart that is willing to be searched is the heart that can be strengthened.
When assumptions fall apart, let examination draw you closer to Christ. Let it deepen your dependence. Let it remind you that faith is not proven in comfort, but refined in crisis.
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1 Comment
My son came to me last night doubting his salvation. He has asked Jesus many times to save him but he is so "matter of fact" if is hard for him to understand and believe that he is actually saved. He is to the point of being worried that because he didn't feel different, then he is not saved. We prayed together and he said a beautiful prayer asking Jesus to be his personal Lord and Savior. He still has concerns and needs someone to talk to. If you can find some time, can you please contact him at 423-404-8785. His name is Thomas Steele. He stood up at your men's retreat a couple months ago to make a outward profession of faith. He wants to know for sure he is saved.