I think I have to take my car in for a check-up. I know I need an oil change because it has been over 4,000 miles and who knows what else might be needed. Even though it sounds like it's running good there might be trouble under my hood. Regular checkups are always good in life whether it is for your car or your relationship with God.

When is the last time you allowed for the Holy Spirit to give you a check-up?

Check-ups are good when you have something to compare to. You know a car part is broken when it doesn't meet up to the standards of a working part. You can hold up many models to compare your spiritual life to but all would be pointless unless that model was Jesus. Comparing yourself spiritually to your friends, your parents, your pastor or the Pope will only cause confusion, frustration, and disillusionment. The goal is not to be as good as Christ, which is an impossible and lofty goal. The goal is to submit to the Father as Christ did and be like-minded in all things.

I hope you can take a minute and allow God to speak to you through a few of the following scriptures. From these different passages, which are all quotes from Jesus, we get a glimpse into how to be like-minded with Christ.

"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work." (Jn. 4:34) Are you hungry for the will of God like Jesus was?

"The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him." (Jn. 8:29) Do you find pleasure in doing the will of God?

"but the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what my Father has commanded me." (Jn. 14:31) Do you love and obey God with everything you are?

"I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them." (Jn. 17:26) Are you fulfilling the purpose God created you for?

How did your check-up go? Maybe it's time to get back on track by submitting in all things to God and living by His truth not just what you think sounds good.

-Josh