January 6, 2006

 

Therefore whoever eats this bread or drinks this cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilt of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks in an unworthy manner eats and drinks judgment to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this reason many are weak and sick among you, and many sleep. --1 Corinthians 11:27-30

 

Most people don’t realize this, but the Lord’s Supper is a time of inspection and examination of your life. Before taking the Lord’s Supper, it is important for you to ask Him and yourself several questions:

 

  • Is there some problem in my life that You want to correct? Is there anything in my attitude, behavior, or actions that I need to deal with or remove? Is there some sin I need to confess? First John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sin, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

 

  • Is there some person with whom I need to make things right? The Lord’s Supper is a communion not only with God, but with other believers. Matthew 5:23-24 says, “Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.”

 

  • Is there some purpose you want me to achieve? What is your will for my life at this point? This is the best time to get clear direction from the Holy Spirit about God’s will for your life. Ask the Lord to show you His way.

 

  • Is there some promise in Your Word that You want me to discover and apply in my life? You may need to be encouraged and God’s promises would be just the thing to hit home in your heart. Claim His promises and rejoice in the victory that is provided to you and for you through Jesus Christ.

 

A great deal of holy awe ought to enter us during communion with the Lord because it is a time when we need to seriously examine our hearts and lives, and if necessary, ask God to perform some radical surgery by His Holy Spirit.

 

BEFORE TAKING OF THE CUP AND BREAD EXAMINE YOUR HEART AND RENEW YOUR SPIRIT IN THE LORD.