A checklist for sin

Last night (Tuesday) was my first time back at Life Group for several months. It was really great. The Thomas's are such inspired hosts. Probably Joan and Barbara would agree that Ken and I have missed our mental sparring matches.

On the way home DW and I were discussing sin and what it is.

So this morning I read a newsletter called "Out of Africa" published by Shekinah Ministries. In it they included a checklist that could be used to see how you shape up before God. Of course none of does very well. This list is designed to help us see our need for God.

1. Do I say one thing and do another? Are my words and my actions inconsistent thereby making me a hypocrite?

2. Have I forgiven everyone? Is there malice, hatred, spite or enmity in my heart? Do I hold grudges against anyone?

3. Do I get angry? Do I easily lose my temper and wrath takes hold of me?

4. Are there feelings of jealousy? When another is preferred before me does it make me envious and uncomfortable?

5. Do I get impatient and irritated? Do little things annoy and vex me?

6. Am I easily offended? Do I get upset if I am ignored, passed over, neglected?

7. Is there pride in my heart? Am I puffed up and think more highly of myself than I should?

8. Have I been dishonest? Am I above reproach in all my dealings?

9. Am I a gossip? Do I take pleasure in slandering the character of others because of my own inadequacy?

10. Am I critical and like criticizing others, always finding fault with them? This is a religious spirit that destroys many fellowships.

11. Do I rob God? Have I stolen time that belongs to Him? Have I denied worship to Him? Have I withheld finances that are His?

12. Am I worldly? Do love the show, pomp, and glitter of this life?

He states that if we answer "YES" to any of these then we should call it by its right name - SIN.

Gosh I want to give myself an out on some of these things, thinking it is just normal behavior, not too bad after all.

DW was calling this sin last night as we drove. I wanted to be more circumspect. I just have to remember it is all covered by the blood. Though I need to redouble my efforts to be more holy and righteous this list shows me how far I fall short. I know I'll never make it without God.