When I hear the word 'audit', I begin to dread the event and become very apprehensive. But what is an audit really? The dictionary defines it as an inspection, correction and verification of accounts and records. The inspection and verification are expected. However, it's the correction that makes me cringe because that means that things will have to change.
What if one day you got an email from God informing you that He is planning an audit of how you are doing here on Earth? My heart would start racing and questions would be bouncing around in my head like, "What did I do wrong? What did I do right? What did I forget to do? What did I choose not to do?" Panicking doesn't begin to describe what I would be doing! Fortunately God doesn't deliver emails that will send you into a fetal position. He very subtly begins to work on your heart, making you aware that something is not quite right. A change will be needed.
Let's compare a business audit (work) and an audit from God (life).
What instructions am I following?
- Work: Policy and Procedures Manual
- Life: The Holy Bible
- Work: Auditor's report, or perhaps you uncover it while preparing for the audit.
- Life: God sends messages to you through the Holy Bible and His Holy Spirit living in you.
How do I correct the error?
- Work: Understand the error, research for the correct answer, and set up a new procedure to eliminate the error.
- Life: Understand the error, read your book of answers, the Holy Bible, and pray for God to reveal His solution to you.
Isaiah 28:29. This also comes from the Lord of Hosts, Who is wonderful in counsel and excellent in guidance.
Why an Audit? God loves us so much that he audits our thoughts and actions. When our 'life' audit indicates a problem, let us accept the counsel and guidance that comes from our Heavenly Father.