Faith Check

By Edd Sterchi       It is always good for a person to do regular checkups on themselves and their lives. We know the importance of this physically, mentally, and even financially. But too often we neglect to do this spiritually – and this is the most important area of all.     In Micah’s day, there were questions of how best to demonstrate one’s faith in God. Was it simply just going through the motions of required sacrifices and offerings? No. Their faith was to be more than an outward ritual – it was to be proper outward actions based upon the proper inward attitude. The prophet summed it up with these words: “He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8). In this verse are three areas that each of us must check up on regularly in regard to our faith.   * Christian, Check Your Righteousness. The first check point was “to do justly.” Being just is being right with God and His will. It is living right, living morally, and living properly in our daily walk. It is always conducting oneself in an upright and upstanding manner. The internal attitude that creates this is a passion to please God. So, Christian, check your life – is it one that is admirable according to God’s standard?   * Christian, Check Your Respect for Others. The second bit of advice from Micah 6:8 was “to love mercy.” Properly respecting others is treating them as God treats us – with kindness, love, and forgiveness. It is selflessly giving to others what is needed in their lives. The internal attitude that brings this forth is a joy of the mercy and salvation that God has given us. So, Christian, check your life – is it one filled with eagerly helping others?   * Christian, Check Your Relationship With God. The final part of our faith checkup is mentioned as “to walk humbly with your God.” Walking with God implies harmony and fellowship. This is attained through reading and studying the Scriptures, regular and fervent prayer, and heartfelt, proper worship. The internal attitude that strengthens this is a desire to grow closer to God. So, Christian, check your life – is it one that honors and involves God in every way?

- Edd Sterchi preaches for the Broadway Church of Christ in Campbellsville, KY. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://www.broadwaychurchofchrist.net/