How great must David’s desire for renewal have been to pray: “Search me, O God, and know my heart…” (Ps 139:23). This is a prayer for God to guide you in knowing yourself as He knows you.
Honest introspection about your life always precedes spiritual renewal. Theologian Tom (N.T.) Wright writes about the necessity of self-examination: “To examine ourselves is not a luxury; it is a necessity for a life of integrity and faithfulness.” How can you grow if you don’t know where you’re falling short?
There are many verses that encourage us to engage in introspection. Lamentations 3:40 states: “Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.” (See also Gal 6:4.) In 2 Corinthians 13:5, we read: “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith.” The Message Bible translates this beautifully: “Test yourselves to make sure you are solid in the faith. Don’t drift along taking everything for granted. Give yourselves regular checkups. You need firsthand evidence, not mere hearsay, that Jesus Christ is in you. Test it out. If you fail the test, do something about it.”
Today, I want to offer you very practical advice from Ignatius of Loyola (16th century). He believed that all believers can have an intimate relationship with Christ, not just those living in isolation (like in monasteries). For this, you should set aside daily time for the POINT-PLAN:
- Remind yourself that you are in God’s presence.
- Look back at the events of your day with appreciation. Thank God.
- Honestly reflect on your shortcomings from the day. Confess them.
- Relive your day in your imagination moment by moment. How was God involved in everything?
- Surrender and renew. What will you do differently tomorrow?
Conclude with the Lord’s Prayer.
MUSIC:
Susan Boyle – The Lord’s Prayer