Becoming More Aware of God's Presence
By Ryan Dawson
One of the great joys of following Jesus is realizing that He is with us in every moment — not just during Sunday worship or in times of prayer, but in the ordinary details of our daily lives. Yet, in the rush of life, it’s easy to miss the subtle ways the Holy Spirit is at work shaping, guiding, and comforting us.
As we continue our Practicing the Way journey together, one simple but powerful spiritual practice that can help us grow in awareness of God’s presence is called The Prayer of Examen. This ancient practice was developed by Ignatius of Loyola (1491–1556) as a way to help followers of Jesus reflect prayerfully on their day and discern the movements of God’s Spirit in their lives. The goal is not guilt or self-criticism — but increased awareness and attentiveness to the loving presence of God throughout the day.
Before you go to bed tonight, try setting aside a few quiet moments for this prayerful reflection.
How to Practice the Prayer of Examen
1. Become Still
Find a comfortable position and take a few deep breaths. Remind yourself that you are in the presence of God, who loves you deeply. Invite the Holy Spirit to help you see your day through His eyes.
2. Review Your Day with Jesus
Walk through the events of your day as if you were watching them on fast-forward with Jesus sitting beside you. Let Him pause the “DVD” at any moment He wants you to notice.
3. Give Thanks
Notice the moments when you were aware of God’s presence — times you felt peace, joy, compassion, or courage. These are signs of moving toward God. Give Him thanks for His nearness and grace in those moments.
4. Notice What Was Hard
Now look at the moments when you were anxious, impatient, distracted, or distant from God. What was going on in your heart? Where might God be inviting you to trust Him more deeply? Confess anything the Spirit puts on your heart and receive God's grace.
5. Look Ahead
End your time by entrusting tomorrow to God. Ask for His grace and guidance as you continue to walk in step with His Spirit.
The Prayer of Examen is a gentle yet powerful way to slow down and become more aware of God’s presence in the everyday moments of your life. Over time, it helps us live more intentionally — noticing the Spirit’s quiet work of transformation within us.
As we practice the way of Jesus together, let’s become people who don’t just rush through our days, but who walk with awareness, seeing our lives as sacred spaces where God is always at work. I would encourage you to take ten minutes before you sleep tonight to pray through the Examen. You may be surprised to discover that Jesus has been nearer than you realized all along.
Blessings, Ryan
One of the great joys of following Jesus is realizing that He is with us in every moment — not just during Sunday worship or in times of prayer, but in the ordinary details of our daily lives. Yet, in the rush of life, it’s easy to miss the subtle ways the Holy Spirit is at work shaping, guiding, and comforting us.
As we continue our Practicing the Way journey together, one simple but powerful spiritual practice that can help us grow in awareness of God’s presence is called The Prayer of Examen. This ancient practice was developed by Ignatius of Loyola (1491–1556) as a way to help followers of Jesus reflect prayerfully on their day and discern the movements of God’s Spirit in their lives. The goal is not guilt or self-criticism — but increased awareness and attentiveness to the loving presence of God throughout the day.
Before you go to bed tonight, try setting aside a few quiet moments for this prayerful reflection.
How to Practice the Prayer of Examen
1. Become Still
Find a comfortable position and take a few deep breaths. Remind yourself that you are in the presence of God, who loves you deeply. Invite the Holy Spirit to help you see your day through His eyes.
2. Review Your Day with Jesus
Walk through the events of your day as if you were watching them on fast-forward with Jesus sitting beside you. Let Him pause the “DVD” at any moment He wants you to notice.
3. Give Thanks
Notice the moments when you were aware of God’s presence — times you felt peace, joy, compassion, or courage. These are signs of moving toward God. Give Him thanks for His nearness and grace in those moments.
4. Notice What Was Hard
Now look at the moments when you were anxious, impatient, distracted, or distant from God. What was going on in your heart? Where might God be inviting you to trust Him more deeply? Confess anything the Spirit puts on your heart and receive God's grace.
5. Look Ahead
End your time by entrusting tomorrow to God. Ask for His grace and guidance as you continue to walk in step with His Spirit.
The Prayer of Examen is a gentle yet powerful way to slow down and become more aware of God’s presence in the everyday moments of your life. Over time, it helps us live more intentionally — noticing the Spirit’s quiet work of transformation within us.
As we practice the way of Jesus together, let’s become people who don’t just rush through our days, but who walk with awareness, seeing our lives as sacred spaces where God is always at work. I would encourage you to take ten minutes before you sleep tonight to pray through the Examen. You may be surprised to discover that Jesus has been nearer than you realized all along.
Blessings, Ryan