Spiritual Check-Ups
by Michael Brown
I recently had a routine doctor’s appointment. I always try and keep regular appointments. It’s the typical drill. I weigh in, get checked for pulse and blood pressure, and comically say to my physician, “What’s wrong with me, Doc? I think I’m falling apart!” His normal response is, “Make sure you go down swinging!” Then we talk about the various numbers that chart how I’m doing health-wise.
Reflecting on this all-too-familiar experience, I started thinking that what’s good for my physical health is even better for my spiritual health. Such thoughts from Scripture as “examine yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5) and “let him who thinks he stands take heed” (1 Corinthians 10:12) came to mind. There are a number of admonitions and exhortations to examine ourselves and take note of our spiritual health. When we couple this with the fact that our spiritual health has a direct correlation to our total well-being, we can’t help but see the need for regular check-ups.
Spiritual check-ups really aren’t that difficult to schedule. However, like caring for our bodies, it takes discipline. It requires discipline to feed our minds the right thought-foods. It takes regular exercise – keeping our bodies engaged in good activities that serve to glorify God. It takes regular attendance at the spiritual fitness spa – the local church assemblies for worship, Bible study, and fellowship. It also takes real, frank conversations with the Great Physician about what’s going on with us. Are we being acutely tempted in some physical, emotional, or spiritual areas? Are we struggling with numbness in prayer life? Are we having temper pressure elevations? Is our pulse in line with that of our loved ones? These are just a few areas that require routine check-up. Thank God that our Great Physician provides all that we need to heal us and keep us on maintenance!
If you haven’t already, I encourage you to think about a regular spiritual fitness routine. Check your pressure points. Check your pulse. Track your progress. Talk to your Doctor. Most importantly, keep regular visits with the Great Physician. For me, it’s a daily appointment. It’s the only way I can make it!
Keep Swinging!
Doc B.
Source [ http://michaelbrown.authorweblog.com/articles/2012/02/51409/spiritual-check-ups ]