One thing is harder still and that is to know oneself. Somehow we feel the barriers of ego, vanity, pride and fear all rolled into one when it comes to having a long look at our inner self. We say "be honest with yourself" and "be true to yourself." Those are words of encouragement, because if we cannot examine and really know ourselves, then we cannot be honest with ourselves.

A Christian is reminded to "examine yourself" (2 Corinthians 13:5), and to test ourselves. We cannot brush these words away. We are to know that Jesus Christ is in us. We know that by the choices we make, the way we strive to understand and use the Holy Scriptures and in our heartfelt prayers to God. We would not be asked to examine ourselves and to know ourselves if it were not possible. Not only is it possible, it is necessary if we are to receive the gift of eternal life. Sincere believers are anxious to know themselves—so they can change.