Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord. (Lam. 3:40)
I DIDN’T WANT TO GO to the cardiologist, but my primary care physician thought it was time to see if there were any problems with my heart. I should have been glad for the possibility of catching a potential problem and fixing it, but I was afraid the cardiologist might find something wrong and, at the time, I didn’t want to know. Maybe if there was a problem and I didn’t know, it would go away and I wouldn’t need to deal with it. Ignorance may be bliss, but it can also be fatal.
A motorcycle manufacturer started a safety program a few years ago with the theme “Stupid hurts.” We know it is stupid to not want to know we have a problem, but sometimes we would rather be ignorant of the facts than have to deal with the truth.
It is serious to have spiritual problems but not want to know what they are. If you know you have a spiritual problem, you must do something about it. Fear of the fix can keep you from getting a lifesaving diagnosis.
Spiritual health requires periodic examinations, tests, and correcting our wanderings so we return to the Lord. Intentional ignorance is stupid, and stupid hurts. Submit yourself to the Spirit’s examination of your heart. You’ll be glad you did.
Ask God to point out any problems in your life today.
Ken Heer was the author of Ancient Fire (WPH), pastor, and community director. He passed away prior to this publication.
© 2016 Wesleyan Publishing House. All rights reserved.