How to Reflect on Your Day with God (The Examen Made Simple)
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Each day holds countless moments where God is near, but we often move too fast to notice. Between work, family, and the never-ending to-do lists, we can easily fall into bed at night feeling distracted or drained rather than spiritually refreshed.
But what if, before closing the day, you could pause to become aware of God’s presence, remember His goodness, and rest in His grace?
That’s the heart of a centuries-old spiritual practice called The Examen — a simple yet powerful way to reflect on your day with God.
What Is the Examen?
The Examen was developed by St. Ignatius of Loyola in the 1500s as a prayerful reflection on the events of each day. It helps us review the past 24 hours with the Lord — noticing where He was present, how we responded to His leading, and how we can walk with Him more closely tomorrow.
It’s not about perfection or performance. It’s simply a quiet conversation with God about your day.
“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
— Psalm 139:23–24 (NIV)
Why It Matters
Practicing daily reflection with God:
- Helps you become more aware of His presence in ordinary moments.
- Cultivates gratitude and peace as you end your day.
- Turns self-criticism into grace-filled conversation with God.
- Deepens your understanding of how He is shaping your heart.
The Five Simple Steps of the Examen
The beauty of this practice is in its simplicity. You can do it in five to ten minutes before bed, using these five steps:
1. Become aware of God’s presence.
Take a deep breath and invite the Holy Spirit to help you see your day through His eyes.
“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10 (ESV)
Ask quietly, “Lord, show me where You were present with me today.”
2. Give thanks.
Recall specific moments of joy, peace, or help you received today. Thank Him for people who blessed you, for small victories, or even for lessons learned through challenges.
“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)
3. Review the day.
Walk slowly through your day like you’re watching a replay. What moments stand out? When did you feel close to God? When did you feel distant, rushed, or anxious? Ask Him to reveal what He wants you to notice.
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
— Psalm 90:12 (NIV)
4. Face your shortcomings with grace.
Be honest about moments where you fell short. Perhaps it was a harsh word, a selfish thought, a moment of unbelief. Don’t hide them; bring them to God. Receive His mercy and let Him remind you that His grace covers you completely.
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
— 1 John 1:9 (NIV)
5. Look toward tomorrow.
End your reflection with hope. Ask God to prepare your heart for the new day ahead — to fill you with peace, wisdom, and love for whatever comes next.
“In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
— Proverbs 3:6 (NLT)
A Simple Prayer for Evening Reflection
“Lord, thank You for being with me today.
Help me see where You were near, and where I missed Your presence.
Thank You for Your grace that meets me in every moment.
As I rest tonight, prepare my heart to walk with You again tomorrow.
Amen.”
How to Make It a Habit
- Keep a small journal beside your bed (the Seek First Journal is perfect for this).
- Set a gentle reminder alarm each night to pause and reflect.
- Write down a few sentences in your Seek First Journal — what you’re thankful for, what you noticed, and what you’re praying for tomorrow.
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Don’t rush it; let this time be a moment of peace and stillness with God.
The more you practice, the more natural it becomes to see your whole day through the lens of God’s presence and love.
God is present in every detail of your day — not just the big moments, but the small, quiet ones too. The Examen helps you recognize that truth and rest in His nearness.
“Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.”
— Genesis 28:16 (ESV)
As you end your day reflecting with God, may you find renewed peace, gratitude, and awareness of His faithful presence in every moment.
Want to Go Deeper?
If you’d like a guided space to record your daily reflections, prayers, and spiritual insights, order the Seek First Journal — designed to help you slow down, notice God’s presence, and keep your heart centered on His Word.