If we spent a bit more time examining ourselves and a little less time examining our theology, we’d be much better off.
The more we see just how much we have failed to do what Jesus asks of us, the more we will be able to see where we have gone wrong in our theology.
The more we are like Christ, the more we will understand Christ. All my problems stem from a lack of love. If I am not being as kind, fair, and as gentle as I should be towards you, it is because I don't love you enough.* That is why we are told in 1 Corinthians 11:27-29 and 2 Corinthians 13:5 to examine ourselves.
Is there someone I have not forgiven? (See Matt 6:14, 15)
Does someone hold something against me? (See Matt 5:23, 24)
Do I owe someone something? (See Rom 13:7, 8)
Have I promised to do something for someone but have not done it?
Am I not treating someone the way I should or feeling the way I should towards them because I'm critical?
Am I willing to endure suffering in silence in order to win someone over (i.e. take up my cross)?
A serious athlete looks carefully at his (or her) performance to see how he might improve. It is good to look back every day and examine what we’ve done.
Did I make my wife or husband feel special today?
Is there something I should have done, but didn’t do?
Did I pray?
Was I gentle with people? Was my gentleness evident? (See Phil 4:5)
Did I let my light shine in such away, that people—even unbelievers—are thankful that I worship the God of the Bible?
Questions like these are important because they help me to identify if I am actually following Jesus (See Matt 21:28-32).
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matt 5:14-16).
Such questions not only help me to see whether I am following Jesus or not, they also drive me to God for help. See Prayer.
One reason we need to examine ourselves is because we don't really know ourselves. If we don't know what our faults are how will we ever address those faults ? See Know Thyself.
* *We must never pretend we care. See Hypocrisy.