Questions for the Prayer of Examen
If you choose to use the prayer of examen, consider using some of these questions to prompt you when you practice it.
One of my favorite ways to end the day is by practicing what is often referred to as the prayer of examen (learn more about it here). It's an old spiritual practice developed by Ignatius of Loyola, a Catholic priest and theologian. He practiced it himself and taught it to others. Basically, I take some time to recall the day that has just passed and examine the various events that occurred within it. In particular, I pay close attention to how I responded to different situations and I observe places where God showed up. This practice allows me to praise God for the many ways He's been with me and encourages me to continue growing my character and behavior for the future.
I use simple prompts to help me recall my day during the prayer of examen. These first four questions help me capture the details of the day:
Who – Who did I meet or encounter during the day? It's good to take a moment to recall their names and faces. I can be grateful for these people in my life and even pray for them and what they are going through.
What – What are some things that happened during the day? I can thank God for every opportunity to work or serve Him or engage in an activity. Were there also things that I wanted to do but I didn't? What can I do about that?
When – When did something occur? It's good to observe the timing of things. Did things go according to plan? Was I able to stick to my schedule? Did I have to adjust? How did that make me feel?
Where – Where did something occur? Places usually have some significance to us. I can take some time to recall the places I've been to that may have brought joy, excitement, sorrow, fear, or disappointment.
These first four questions help me recall what exactly transpired during the day. The next two questions dig a little bit deeper into my heart and behavior:
Why – Why did I do something? This is a question that peeks into my motivation for doing things. I want to take some time to examine the motives of my heart in every encounter. I'm well-aware that not everything I do is rightly motivated. I want to observe this so that I can have better motivations for doing things in the future.
How – How did I respond? I want to examine my actual behavior. I want to continue doing things that bring glory to God. I also want to improve behaviors that are less than godly. I want to take time to consider how I will respond in the future when similar things happen again.
These last two questions help me dig deeper into what's happening in me and through me. They help me grow my attitude, character, and behavior for the future.
Remember, the prayer of examen is simply a tool for developing your life and spirituality. The goal is to become more like Christ every single day in our character and behavior. This kind of prayer is one tool that you can use to keep growing as a follower of Jesus. If you choose to use the prayer of examen, consider using some of these questions to prompt you when you practice it.
Barnabas the Monastic
Servant of Christ. Husband. Dad. Modern Monastic. I have a wild ambition in life: get as close to the Lord Jesus Christ as I can while on earth. I explore and integrate ancient Christian monk wisdom in modern everyday life. Lives in Canada.
