Trey Knowles emphasizes the importance of examining oneself in light of God’s Word. Self-evaluation means intentionally studying your own actions, attitudes, and tendencies to ensure you are walking according to God’s will. It is a process of becoming aware of your strengths, weaknesses, behaviors, and habits, with the purpose of growing in obedience to God.
Scripture reminds us of this in James 3:13–15, which teaches that true wisdom is demonstrated through humility and godly living, while envy and selfish ambition reveal a wisdom that is earthly and unspiritual.
Living in the Spirit requires daily discipline. Just as people train animals to obey, we must train our own hearts, minds, and bodies to submit to God. Self-discipline allows us to resist ungodliness, deny instant gratification, and remain focused on long-term spiritual growth. It involves perseverance, impulse control, and learning from failures in order to move forward faithfully.
Ultimately, self-evaluation and self-discipline work together to help believers crucify the flesh, live by the Spirit, and walk in obedience to the Word of God.
