Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. — Psalm 51:10, NIV
The prayer of examen can be done in a few ways and revised to your preference. You may write your responses in a journal or simply respond in your head in conversation with God. Here are five steps you can use as a guide to lean deeply into God for your own daily examen:3
1. Gratitude: Psalm 100:4 says to “Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praises.” Give thanks to God for his benefits today and all that you are grateful for. Beginning with gratitude is another way to remember the good character of God and the blessings he has placed upon your life.
2. Ask for Light: Ask the Holy Spirit to see your day through his eyes and with his truth. Even though it may be difficult, the daily examen is designed to be beautifully authentic and revealing.
3. Review: Review your day as if you were watching a short film. What happened? Where did you sense God’s presence? When did you feel far from him? Do your best to actively remember your day and notice where he was particularly present.
4. Repent: You may ask yourself, Where did I feel emotional pain today? or, Where did I stray away from God? Then, ask God for forgiveness over your sins today. Invite his mercy and compassion to be with you. Hold space for both self-awareness and the overwhelming grace from God.
5. Renew: Close by asking God to renew you, make you more available, and to continue seeing him in all things. If you had a burdensome or dull day, it is okay! Ask the Holy Spirit to help you live out tomorrow differently.
Once you get in the rhythm of practicing the daily examen, you may be able to look back and observe what formed you toward or away from the image of Jesus. You may begin to notice him more and more in your everyday — what a gift that is!
If you desire to practice the prayer of examen in community or learn more about this spiritual practice to help you continue seeing God in all things, consider attending Grand Canyon University’s Spiritual Formation workshops. Fill out the form on this page to learn more.