Self-Evaluation

One of the concerns I have in today’s self-centered social dynamic is a willingness to self-evaluate. It seems like a wise thing to do, and many would say that it is a necessary part of development and productivity to always be on the lookout for problem areas and challenges through self-evaluation.

However, there is a danger. It is found in 2 Corinthians 10:12.


We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.

The danger is this: by what measure or standard do you evaluate your life?

It is easy to measure up to the standards of self-imposed qualifications. I have no trouble judging myself by my own set of values and principles because I will always measure up. Most people will evaluate themselves based upon the preconceived notion that they are good in heart, always striving with noble motives and intentions. But who are they comparing themselves to… yes, you got it… themselves.

For example, if I determine that all good, qualified men in life should be six-feet, two-inches tall, then I go and look in the mirror – behold! I measure up! I know that this is a ridiculous illustration, but the same can be said of measuring up to our own moral and spiritual standards.

Consider what is said in 1 Corinthians 4:3-4.

I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me.

Just because you might have a clear conscience, it does not mean you are innocent. If the only measure you use to judge your own life is self-imposed standards, then you run a great risk and are in danger of proclaiming yourself innocent, all the while being guilty. It must be the Lord who is the final judge.

So, then, where do you go to get the standard? You must go to the authority that is over your life. At work, it was my employer. In the military, it was my commanding officer. And in all of life, it is the Word of God.

Read this passage from Hebrews 4:12-13

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

If you are going to practice self-evaluation then you must measure yourself by the standards set in God’s Word and nothing else. Abandon the notion that you are even remotely qualified to stand as the magistrate over your own or anyone else’s life.

Stand and face the penetrating light of Scripture and let it reveal every dark and sin-stained element of your life. Then, in that moment, let godly sorrow overwhelm you and lead you to repentance (2 Corinthians 7:10). Then confess your sins and let the wonderful grace of Christ wash over you as He forgives and cleanses (1 John 1:9).

Only when you let the standard of Christ be the measuring line, will you be able to evaluate your own life correctly.