Unfortunately people today go to church or spend time in prayer without even getting in tune with God. They go through either one as a useless ritual. The Psalmist says,"Yahweh, you examine me and know me."-Ps.139:1. Another writer chronicles, "The LORD searches every mind, and understands every plan and thought."---1Chron.28:9.
Richard Foster says that the Prayer of Examen has two sides. The first is an examen of consciousness through which we discover how God has been present to us througout the day and how we responded to his loving presence. The second aspect is an examen of conscience where we uncover areas that need cleansing, purifying and healing.
God wants us to be present where we are. Spend time with God in the moment. Be aware of His presence. Hear and see what is around you. On a recent prayer walk, I was able to capture God's vision for our land by walking with Him and listening. Recognize God. And of course, we need to open up and invite God to search our heart and point out the areas we need cleansed and purified. (see Psalm 139:23-24)---One practical way to recognize God at work in your life is to do a spiritual journal. By doing so you can keep "God tracks." You can look back in that journal and see where God has been at work in your life. Slow down. Be still and know that He is God today.
