daily examen

Evening Examen

Pray:
Almighty God, in this quiet hour I seek communion with Thee.
from the fret and fever of the day’s business,
from the world’s vain imaginations of my own heart,
I would now turn aside and seek the quietness of Thy presence.

All day long have I toiled and striven;
but now in the stillness of heart and the clear light of Thine eternity,
I would ponder the pattern my life is weaving.
John Baillie

Reflect: Reflect on the events and emotions of your day.

• Ask God to reveal His presence and activity. “Lord, where did I see you or meet You today?”

• Become aware of your emotions before God. Ask, “How did I feel today?” Specifically, identify your:

  • Desolations
    Ask, “Where did I experience sadness, apathy, anger, hurt, inner chaos, or sense of something being life-draining?”

  • Consolations
    Ask, “Where did I feel more deeply connected with God, others, and myself?”

Rejoice: Review your day in a spirit of gratitude.

• Gratefully recal moments of joy (goodness, beauty, and truth). Ask “Lord, what were the blessings in my life today?”

• Thank God for any blessings that come to mind.

Repent: Review your day with an open and repentant heart.

Ask: “Lord, where did I fall short of Your will today?”

• Where did you see desires, thoughts, attitudes, words, or actions in your life that don’t look like Jesus and his way?

• Confess them to God. Ask for His Spirit to renew and empower you. Receive His grace.

Renew: With hope, consider tomorrow’s events and activities.

• Think through the day.

• Offer tomorrow’s plans and yourself to God.

• Ask God for wisdom, strength, and boldness to walk in the way of Jesus throughout the next day.