Self-examination is essential for every preacher and servant of God. Scripture warns, “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall” (1 Corinthians 10:12). A fall seldom occurs suddenly; it is often the result of subtle shifts in focus and heart condition. Here are critical warning signs to reflect upon:
1. Public Praise Overshadows Private Worship
If praise for the Lord is louder in public than it is in private, the focus may have shifted toward appearances rather than genuine intimacy with God. “But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret” (Matthew 6:6). True worship begins in the unseen moments.
2. Conversations Outweigh Contemplation
Speaking about spiritual matters should never surpass private meditation and personal reflection. “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight” (Psalm 19:14). What is said outwardly should be an overflow of what God is doing inwardly.
3. Public Prayer Outperforms Private Prayer
Intensity in public prayer without a deeper, private connection reveals misplaced priorities. The Pharisees were known for this (Luke 18:11). True power in ministry stems from the quiet, personal moments of prayer and communion with God.
4. Recognition Becomes the Motivation
If effort in ministry increases primarily for competitions or recognition, rather than out of a desire to please the Lord, the heart is being led astray. “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men” (Colossians 3:23).
5. Compliments Define Success
Seeking affirmation from others to gauge the effectiveness of preaching diminishes the importance of God’s approval. “Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ” (Ephesians 6:6). The goal must always be to honor God, not receive applause.
6. Sermons Aim for Response Over Truth
When sermons are crafted primarily for crowd response rather than to convey God’s truth, the ministry becomes performance-driven. “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2). Truth, not theatrics, transforms lives.
7. Style Overshadows Substance
A polished delivery should never outshine the message’s depth and sincerity. “For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power” (1 Corinthians 4:20). Content rooted in Scripture must always take precedence over presentation.
8. Outline Refinement Exceeds Heart Refinement
Crafting a sermon outline must not take precedence over examining the purity of the heart. “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life” (Proverbs 4:23).
9. Envy Creeps In
Jealousy over the success of others is a dangerous sign. “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work” (James 3:16). Celebrate others’ victories rather than harboring resentment.
10. Ministry Becomes Competitive
Competing with peers for status or recognition reveals a misaligned focus. “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves” (Philippians 2:3).
11. Sacrifices Are Broadcasted
Desiring others to acknowledge personal sacrifices shifts the glory away from God. “Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them” (Matthew 6:1).
12. Reputation Overshadows God’s Opinion
When concern over what others think outweighs concern for how God views actions, pride has taken root. “The fear of man bringeth a snare” (Proverbs 29:25).
13. Response at the Altar Is Calculated
Responding to God should not depend on whether others are moving. Humility must override fear of perception. “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up” (James 4:10).
14. Ministry Is for Show
Ministry centered on public acts rather than private devotion is shallow and unsustainable. “But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth” (Matthew 6:3).
15. Self-Impression Replaces Humility
Feeling pride over accomplishments done “for the Lord” is a dangerous pitfall. “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble” (James 4:6).
16. Faults in Others Are Magnified
A critical spirit toward others while ignoring personal flaws invites spiritual blindness. “And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?” (Matthew 7:3).
17. Crowds Replace Solitude with God
Desiring the security of Christian company more than the solitude of God’s presence can indicate misplaced priorities. “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). True strength is found alone with Him.
18. Small Sins Are Tolerated
Allowing “minor” sins to persist unchecked can lead to greater moral failure. “Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines” (Song of Solomon 2:15). Sin, no matter how small, erodes spiritual health.
19. Burnout Is Ignored
Neglecting rest and renewal can lead to spiritual and emotional exhaustion. “Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while” (Mark 6:31). Consistent rest in God’s presence is essential.
Let these warnings serve as a reminder to guard the heart and keep the focus fixed on the Lord. Self-examination and humility before God are essential to sustaining a faithful and fruitful ministry.