Isaiah 43:1b

Stop.

We will revisit the devotional practice known as Examen this week. You’ll need a timer, a quiet spot, and about ten minutes for devotions each day this week. Get what you need, take a deep breath, and prepare to hear from our upcoming preaching text.

Listen.

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine. – Isaiah 43:1b

Reflect.

This devotional space frequently helps us learn more about a text and find a way to connect it to our faith lives this week. This week, the text will guide us in a process called Examen. This style of meditative, listening prayer invites you to reflect on the day and discern God’s leading through the events. For each devotion this week, you will get five questions to reflect on based on the verse you read. Set your timer for two minutes to reflect on and pray about each question. Allow yourself to hear what God might be saying, even if all you hear is an invitation to be quiet and still:

In Isaiah, God says, “I have called you by name; you are mine.” Where did you hear God calling you today?

What does it mean to you that you belong to God and are redeemed by God? Dwell in this thought. Take time to thank God for claiming and calling you.

Look through your day. Can you find one moment, conversation, event, or task that seems to stand out to you? How do you feel God’s claim on you in that situation?

God calls us to not fear in Isaiah. What makes you afraid today? Ask God to give you a heart of love and peace in the face of that which frightens you.

How will God’s promise to redeem, claim, and keep you safe grant you confidence and endurance this week?

Pray.

I praise you, God, because you love me no matter what. I rejoice that I belong to you. Keep me in your care, defend me from any evil, and call me always to service of your word and my neighbor. Amen.

Carry On.

How will these questions guide your awareness of God’s presence in your life today? This week? All month?