WEEK 2 - REPENTENCE
This week, we will allow the spotlight to turn inward. As we pray, we will open our lives to a deep search and cleansing by the Holy Spirit. While repenting of our own sinful attitudes and behaviors, we will also pray prayers of repentance for our nation, which has turned away from God and His truth and has not valued the precious gift of life.
DAY NINE - PERSONAL EXAMINATION BY JEN SCHEPENS
Psalm 139:1, 7, and 23-24
1 O Lord, you have searched me and known me! 7 Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? 23-24 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! 24 And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!
Personal examination is a powerful tool to see where our lives don’t align with God’s holiness. It can highlight areas in which we can welcome the Spirit’s deep, transforming work. Psalm 139 highlights three truths to deepen our personal examination in prayer.
Read Psalm 139:1–6. You are known. No matter where you are in your faith journey, you have a history with God. He has been present in your story. He has searched you and is with you regardless of your circumstances.
Read Psalm 139:7–16. You are seen. God’s presence brings light, which illuminates what is hidden and reveals truth. When you truly see who God is, you are ready to see the truth of who you are—one He has created and knit together in the womb.
Read Psalm 139:17–24. Search me. Now step out in humility and ask for God’s scrutiny. He knows you, sees you, and has created you. Ask for His revelation as you personally examine anything preventing you from living out your identity as His creation.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Welcome the Lord into this moment, this place, and acknowledge His presence. Trace your journey to this point and recall how God has been with you. Where have you seen Him before? How has He been present? How has He already worked in you?
2. Welcome the Spirit’s illuminating presence to bring light to the dark spaces in your soul. Using verse 14, take a moment to praise and worship your Creator.
3. Pray verses 23 and 24, asking God to reveal any offensive way in you. What came to mind as you prayed those words? Ask God to reveal what is hidden. Pray that the Spirit will show you areas that are not aligned with how God created you.