Self-examination is a critical practice in the Christian life, encouraging believers to assess their spiritual condition and alignment with God's will. The Bible underscores the importance of self-examination as a means to maintain a sincere and authentic faith. In 2 Corinthians 13:5, the Apostle Paul exhorts the church, "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Can't you see for yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you actually fail the test?" . This call to introspection is not merely for self-awareness but to ensure that one's life reflects the transformative power of Christ.

The practice of self-examination is also evident in the Psalms, where David invites God to search his heart: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns" (Psalm 139:23). This prayerful introspection seeks divine guidance in identifying areas of sin and weakness, fostering a spirit of repentance and growth.

Self-examination is closely linked to the observance of the Lord's Supper. In 1 Corinthians 11:28, Paul instructs believers, "Each one must examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup" . This examination ensures that participants approach the sacrament with reverence and a clear conscience, acknowledging the gravity of Christ's sacrifice.

In the broader context of Christian living, self-examination involves evaluating one's actions, thoughts, and motives against the teachings of Scripture. James 1:23-24 likens the Word of God to a mirror, urging believers to not only hear the Word but to act upon it: "For anyone who hears the word but does not carry it out is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror, and after observing himself goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like" .

Stewardship

Stewardship in the Christian context refers to the responsible management of the resources, talents, and opportunities that God has entrusted to individuals. It is a recognition that everything belongs to God and that humans are merely caretakers of His creation. The concept of stewardship is rooted in the creation narrative, where God appoints humanity to "fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth" (Genesis 1:28).

The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 illustrates the principles of stewardship, emphasizing accountability and the wise use of resources. The master commends the faithful servants, saying, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things" (Matthew 25:21). This parable highlights the expectation that believers will use their God-given gifts to further His kingdom and serve others.

Financial stewardship is another critical aspect, as seen in 1 Timothy 6:17-19, where Paul advises the wealthy to "do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share" . This teaching underscores the responsibility to use material wealth for the benefit of others and the advancement of God's work.

Moreover, stewardship extends to the care of the environment, reflecting the biblical mandate to "work it and take care of it" (Genesis 2:15). This stewardship of creation calls for a balanced approach that honors God by preserving and protecting the natural world.

In all aspects, stewardship is an act of worship, acknowledging God's sovereignty and expressing gratitude for His provision. It requires faithfulness, wisdom, and a heart aligned with God's purposes, as believers seek to glorify Him through their management of His gifts.