Find Spiritual Growth with Us (15)

Know and Watch Thyself

Spiritual growth begins with self-awareness. Before we change the world around us, we must examine what’s happening within us.

“Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified.”  (2 Corinthians 13:5)

Start With the Mirror

During a recent team meeting, we displayed each person’s work updates on the screen—along with names. Some of the feedback was expected, some surprising. But what mattered most wasn’t the data—it was the clarity.

In one moment, we realized: Leadership begins with self-awareness. One team member was unaware of how his tardiness affected others, and for the first time others who were constantly picking up his slack, saw that he was still unaware.

We’re not so different in our spiritual lives. One of the greatest dangers for believers is becoming inattentive. Over time, without realizing it, we distort how we worship, convince ourselves we’re doing fine, and begin to stagnate spiritually.

That’s why Paul urged: “Examine yourselves.” Vigilance is essential for a growing faith.

When Worship Becomes About Us

In Exodus 32, Aaron and the Israelites couldn’t wait for Moses to return from Mount Sinai. They grew impatient and took worship into their own hands—literally. They built a golden calf and worshipped it.

Aaron wasn’t a rebellious leader—he was respected, even spoken to directly by God. Yet he still led the people into one of the Bible’s most tragic acts of idolatry.

Why? Because they reshaped worship to suit their convenience, not God’s command.

How often do we do the same—choosing convenience over obedience?

Today, it may look like skipping Sabbath for a “can’t-miss” event or only attending services when our favorite speaker is preaching. We may not melt gold into calves, but we bend worship to fit our preferences just the same.

Shifting the Glory

When our faith becomes inattentive, we not only change how we worship—we change who we worship. In Acts 14, after Paul and Barnabas healed a crippled man, the people tried to worship them as gods. But Paul shouted, “…We are also men with the same nature as you… turn from these useless things to the living God…” (Acts 14:15)

Even in success, Paul gave all the glory to God.

Contrast that with how we often receive praise. Do we take credit for our talents, promotions, or achievements? Jesus reminds us:

“How can you believe, who receive honor from one another, and do not seek the honor that comes from the only God?” (John 5:44)

We are vessels—nothing more. Every good thing comes from God, and every bit of glory should return to Him.

Run with Vigilance

The Christian life isn’t a sprint. It’s a marathon. A triathlon. One that requires vigilance all the way through.

Spring reminds us of renewal and growth. But before we grow outwardly, we must first look inward.

Studies show that 80% of leaders lack true self-awareness. Those who overestimate themselves are far more likely to fail. That’s why spiritual self-reflection matters. It’s like standing before a mirror—honest and unfiltered.

God’s Word is our mirror. It shows us who we truly are, and who we’re called to become.

A Final Word

We’re all standing at the foot of Mount Sinai. The wait feels long. But Jesus is coming soon.

So, will we survive the wait? Will we stay faithful, vigilant, and grounded? Or will we shape God to fit our world?

Let’s take time this week to ask:

• Am I truly worshiping God His way—or mine?
• Have I allowed my habits or preferences to reshape my faith?
• Where do I need correction—and am I willing to receive it?

Let’s Reflect

Self-awareness isn’t just for leaders. It’s for everyone who seeks to grow in faith. We can’t influence others, serve effectively, or glorify God fully—unless we first know ourselves.

Need prayer or want to grow deeper in your walk with God? 

  “Therefore, say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord of hosts: “Return to Me,” says the Lord of hosts, “and I will return to you,” says the Lord of hosts.” (Zechariah 1:3)

Join us for our Spring 2025 Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation (ESSC)—a time of worship, fellowship, and growing spiritually.

We look forward to seeing you!

Thursday, April 17, 2025 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, April 18-19, 2025 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, April 20, 2025 9:00AM to 1:00PM

Please find our church location below:

True Jesus Church
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
 Google Maps

In the meantime, please feel free to join us for our regular Sabbath (Friday evening and Saturday) services online or in-person.

Friday Evening Service:  7:50PM – 9:00PM

Saturday Morning Service:  10:50AM – 12:00Noon

Saturday Afternoon Service:  1:30PM – 2:40PM

Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org