As we continue looking at our approaching of the year '97, it is important that we look at our lives with a good deal of scrutinization. We need to self examine our lives so no one else needs to!

The Lord sees our every step, struggle, success, and sorrow. He is willing to help us as we approach the end off this year. Is it too late to change what we have done this year? mostly - Yes. However, we can learn from our (many) mistakes and build upon them to the point that we improve next year.

We have already looked at the need for prayer and a determined stand for the Lord today I want to look at how introspection is important in our lives for improvement.

I. We need to have a deep caring for all souls in our hearts!

A. Love our (YOUR) enemies

1. Do good unto them - 27
2. Pray for them - 28
3. Withhold angry reactions - 29
4. Be benevolent - 30
5. Live the golden rule -- 31

B. Treat people without selfish motives

1. Is equal treatment to others the proper way? - 33,34
2. Be the shining example of the Christmas Spirit for the rest of this year and ingrain it into your life and be this way in '97 - 35

A. Cease from unscriptural judging - 37

1. Judge not
2. Condemn not
3. Forgive
4. Give (i.e. understanding, compassion, caring, etc.)

B. Take care of SELF as we approach the end of this year - 39-45

1. Self examination handles most of our REAL problems - 39-45
2. Looking at others and solving ALL of their problems is unscriptural 41,42
3. Making sure we bear the right fruit should be our main goal! - 43,44
4. Live like a "good man"! - 45

Gary Marcum - East 38th Street Free Will Baptist - 120896am