Psalm 139:23-24, Jeremiah 17:10, Hebrews 3:12, Hebrews 12:11, Romans 8:1

David Kramer considers the importance of getting regular health 'check ups' with God.

David Kramer

Some time ago now I got my usual email from Cross Rhythms telling me the date my next Life File should be submitted. When I went to put that date in my diary, it coincided with the day I was due at the dentist for my next check-up. Dentist - ugh!

Visiting the dentist is often not as unpleasant an experience as we anticipate. However, I've yet to hear anyone announce with excitement, "I'm off to the dentist tomorrow - woohoo!"

Despite it not being something I look forward to, none the less, I will keep that appointment. Why? Because a check-up reveals the health of my teeth; picks up anything that's not as it should be, enabling appropriate treatment and resulting in proper functioning now; AND it avoids worse problems later on. In short, a trip to the dentist may not be anyone's favourite event, but it's worth it.

The Psalmist writes, "Search me O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there is any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting." (Psalm 139:23-24)

In Jeremiah 17:10 it says, "I the Lord search the heart and test the mind."

The writer to the Hebrews warns us, "Take care brothers lest there be in any of you an evil unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God." Hebrews 3:12. (You can check out more on this verse in my previous Life File.)

So, might it be time for you to have a check-up with the Lord? He (& your dentist!) are on your side. Make yourself an appointment and ask Him to look at e.g. your:

• Relationship (with Him & others)


• Fitness, diet


• Thought life


• Prayer life


• Bible reading


• Level of gratitude


• Response to praise/criticism/challenges/setbacks/encouragement

And so on.

He knows what needs attention, and will pinpoint it at the right time if we make and keep the appointment. It may well not be an altogether pleasant experience. In fact, the 'treatment' might involve some real pain and upset. "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." (Hebrews 12:11).

Remember, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." (Romans 8:1)

Furthermore, checking in with God for a check-up will encourage you in the things that are good and healthy in your life; point out anything that needs attention; lead to appropriate 'treatment' of any problems and issues AND avoid greater problems (and pain) later on.

It's worth it.

He says that you're worth it.

It's for the glory of His name.