TEST YOURSELF
28th May 2025
My Bible is a Parallel Study Bible - with The Message alongside the New International Version. I was reading 2 Corinthians 13:5-9, and in The Message it states, “Test yourselves to make sure you are solid in the faith. Don’t drift along taking everything for granted. Give yourselves regular checkups. You need firsthand evidence, not mere hearsay, that Jesus Christ is in you.”
In the NIV it says, “Do you not realise that Christ is in you?” I believe that Jesus is in me, so I ask myself the question, “What evidence is there for this belief?” “How much of Jesus is visible and in action?”
I received Jesus when I was 11 years old, and He has been changing me, healing me, teaching me ever since then. I can look back and see when He has been at work, and I’m thankful. However, I’m obeying the instruction to test myself, and make sure there is some first hand evidence for this claim.
I know His presence and I can hear His voice as the Holy Spirit moves in my heart. As I read His Word I see new things teaching and correcting me. I ask myself, “Would a total stranger know I carry Jesus?” Would they feel His presence? Do I speak words of faith and encouragement? Do I act like Jesus, healing the sick and casting out demons, demonstrating His power in ordinary life? When did I last see a miracle or pray and see a mountain move?
It is good to examine yourself, and if you see areas in your life where you have slipped backwards rather than taken new ground - repent, tell Father God you want to demonstrate the life of the risen Jesus, who you confess lives in you.
I always want reality, not religious behaviour, and I am happy to test myself. I know that where I see failure and lack, I can confess, be cleansed, receive a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit, and move on. I want to see first hand evidence of healing, deliverance, prophetic words, and let Jesus do what He loves to do as He ministers to those we are in contact with.
I want to carry Jesus, and make Him visible to a very needy broken world.
by Joyce Sibthorpe
