Self-Examination

“Let us examine and probe our ways, and let us return to the Lord.”

Lamentations 3:40

Just as there are benefits to physical self-examination of our bodies, it is equally beneficial to examine ourselves introspectively. This involves taking time to reflect upon our motives, beliefs, and behaviors. While looking inward can be uncomfortable, doing so yields many healthy spiritual benefits. Regarding our walk with the Lord, this practice helps us reveal hidden sin that we may not initially see. The importance of this discipline is reflected in its frequent mention throughout Scripture.

The nation of Israel had repeatedly failed to respond to the Lord’s calls for repentance. Instead of listening and turning, they continued headfirst into rebellion and experienced the consequences of their sin. How often have we done the same thing? Their lack of repentance led to their eventual downfall when Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians in 586/587 B.C. In the book of Lamentations, Jeremiah is reacting to these events. Within this context, the prophet calls upon the nation to self-examination.

“God’s affliction was designed as a corrective measure to restore His wayward people (Deut. 28:15–68). It was designed to force the people to return to the Lord (Deut. 30:1-10).”[1]

In Lamentations 3:40, Jeremiah shifts the focus from himself to the nation by using the phrase “let us.” Although they need to return to the Lord, the prophet exhorts the people to do two things first: examine and probe their ways. To “examine” (chaphas) implies a diligent need to search or ponder, while to “probe” (chaqar) indicates a thorough investigation. We find similar exhortations in Psalm 119:59, 139:23–24, and 2 Corinthians 13:5. This is not merely an intellectual exercise, but rather an investigation of their hearts. Doing so will enable them to truly return to the Lord. The Lord desires that the heart be changed, which in turn will lead to correction in our outward behavior.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart today;

Try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray.

See if there be some wicked way in me;

Cleanse me from ev'ry sin and set me free.”[2]

There are many spiritual disciplines that produce healthy benefits. Self-examination probes our hearts to lead us to repentance and removes self-deception. In the Lord’s grace, we have been given prayer, the indwelling Holy Spirit, and the Word of God to help us examine ourselves. These gracious tools help remove all that is false within us, leading us back to the Lord we love.

Lord, it is easy for me to examine others while ignoring my own heart. Thank You for the gift of prayer, Your Word, and the Holy Spirit to help me see myself clearly. May the goal of self-examination always be restored fellowship with You. Amen.

[1] The Bible Knowledge Commentary, pg. 1218.

[2] J. Edwin Orr. “Search me, O God.”