acknowledge

“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”

Psalms 139: 23-24 NIV

Approach His throne with confidence.

As kids, we loved to play hide and seek. We loved the thrill of hiding and hoping no one could find us. As adults, it is rare to willingly invite someone to search us out. It’s easier to withhold our shame and project a false image to the world to save face.

David was not a perfect man, but he was authentic. He was familiar with his lesser self— also known as our flesh. The part of us that contributes to our own demise. This is why Jesus taught us to pray “lead us not into temptation” in other words— Father save me from myself, I am my own worst enemy. Don’t let me sabotage the good work you are doing in me.

​No detail of our life is hidden from God. (Heb 4:13) He knows our coping mechanisms and temptations. He knows when we’re treated unfairly and we want to fight back. He can identify our underlying motives and fears. He sees the moments we are desperate for acceptance, affection and to be understood. (Heb 4:14-16) And every moment He views us through the eyes of grace. Love and mercy at the very core of His abiding presence.

Draw closer to the One who understands you completely— the perfect hiding spot. (Ps 71:3) He loves you perfectly. And His love will never change. What will change is your ability to receive, which will shift your perspective and ultimately transform how you live.

practice

solitude /confession

This practice is a quiet departure into conversation with God giving us the opportunity to come face to face with Him and who we truly are.

Begin with this prayer of examen.

​Review the events of the day or previous day and invite in God’s clarity. Confess your failures, walk through moments with God, acknowledge any emotions you experienced and what God is saying through them.

​Ask Him to point out something He finds important and pray from that place.

​In this space, expose your fears, worries, lies you’ve believed, desire for God, lack of desire for God, dreams and hopes; allow God to speak His love over you and work in you His spirit of freedom.

centering prayer

LORD, search me and lead me