A Simple Habit That Will Transform Your Faith
Have you ever collapsed into bed at night, exhausted, wondering where the day went? Maybe you had a packed schedule, meetings, deadlines, errands but never really paused to breathe. Maybe you were at church, but your mind was elsewhere. Or maybe you scrolled social media for way too long and ended the night feeling empty.
Sound familiar?
Between work, family, church commitments and the occasional mamak session, we often rush from one thing to another without really reflecting on where God was in our day. But what if you could end each day differently, with peace, clarity and a deep awareness of God’s presence?
That’s exactly what St Ignatius of Loyola had in mind when he introduced a powerful prayer called the Daily Examen. It’s simple and life-changing.
What Is the Daily Examen?
The Daily Examen is a structured prayer that helps you reflect on your day, where God was present, how you responded, and where you need His grace.
Unlike other prayers, the Examen isn’t just about asking God for things, it’s about recognising how He is already moving in your life. It’s a way to slow down and see your day through God’s eyes, not just your own.
It’s practical, powerful and perfect for busy people.
Step 1: Give Thanks – Find the Blessings
Before you dive into the details of your day, pause. God was present today, can you see it?
Think about the blessings, big and small. The smile from a parishioner. The smooth drive to work (no traffic jam today, thank God!). The nasi lemak at the Nativity Café that tasted extra good this morning. Gratitude shifts our focus from what’s missing to what God has already given.
Example: “Lord, thank You for the laughter I shared with my family tonight. Thank You for the grace to serve in my ministry even when I was tired.”
Step 2: Ask for Light – See Through God’s Eyes
We don’t always see things clearly. Sometimes we get too caught up in emotions or distractions. Before reviewing your day, ask the Holy Spirit for clarity.
- Where was God leading you today?
- Did you follow His promptings or ignore them?
- Did you recognise His presence in your struggles?
Example: “Holy Spirit, open my heart. Help me see my day not just as a list of tasks, but as a journey where You were walking beside me.”
Step 3: Examine the Day – The Good, The Struggles, The Growth
Now, rewind your day.
- When did you feel peace, joy or love?
- When did you feel stressed, impatient or distant from God?
- How did you treat the people around you, your colleagues, your family, your friends at church?
This isn’t about being hard on yourself, it’s about awareness. The more you notice God’s presence, the easier it becomes to follow His lead.
Example: “Lord, I see that I was patient with my co-workers today, thank You for that grace. But I also see that I avoided a difficult conversation because I was afraid. Help me be braver tomorrow.”
Step 4: Seek Forgiveness – Let God’s Mercy In
Now, take an honest look at where you fell short. Maybe it was impatience with a family member. Maybe it was skipping prayer time because TikTok was more appealing. Maybe it was gossiping after Sunday Mass.
Instead of feeling guilty, bring it to God. He’s not standing there with a scorecard, He’s waiting with mercy.
Example: “Jesus, I see where I let pride take over today. Forgive me. Help me to choose humility tomorrow.”
Step 5: Look Forward – Get Ready for Tomorrow
Tomorrow is a new day. How will you live it differently?
Ask for God’s help in one specific area. If you struggled with patience, pray for more patience. If distractions took over, ask for greater focus.
Then, trust that God is already there, waiting for you in tomorrow’s moments.
Example: “Lord, tomorrow I will be more present in my conversations. Give me the grace to put my phone down and truly listen.”
Why This Prayer Changes Everything
The Examen isn’t about looking back in regret, it’s about looking forward in hope.
When you make this prayer a habit, something powerful happens:
- You start seeing God in the ordinary moments of your life.
- You become more self-aware of your patterns, struggles and growth.
- You live with greater purpose and joy.
Most importantly, you stop rushing through life and start truly living it with God.
Try It Tonight!
Don’t overthink it, just take some time before bed and walk through the steps. No perfection needed, just an open heart.
Stick with it for a week and see how it changes you. You’ll start noticing just how much God is showing up in your life.
Because God is always there. (BV)
How relevant even in our modern day living!