What does ‘Housecleaning’ Have to do with Wanting Children?

ByKimberly McLagan
Bird perched on a green leafy branch. Scripture: Search me, O 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. Psalm 139:23-24 NIV

This new year offers us the opportunity to do major ‘housecleaning’—not the kind that means clearing out closets and clutter—but to examine our daily life through God’s lens.

Scripture reminds us of the importance of nurturing the earthly home we carry:

“...you yourselves are God's temple…God's Spirit dwells in your midst… 
1 Corinthians 3:16 NIV

With the desire to have children being a priority in your prayers, how about seizing the moment and getting your ‘house’ in order? You can do that by routinely assessing God’s presence in your daily circumstances and relationships.

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is —His good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV

What happens today may equip you for what God has in store tomorrow. Let’s chat about it.

The practice of The Examen can make all the difference

A friend of mine introduced me to a prayer practice exercised for centuries that will help you review your day in the light of God’s presence—The Examen. It will take your ‘housecleaning’ to a whole new level.

According to Richard J. Foster, pastor and author of the classic The Celebration of Discipline and Prayer: Finding The Heart’s True Home:

“The ‘Examen’ is a prayer practice where one intentionally reflects on their day, examining their thoughts, feelings, and actions to discern how God has been present in their life and how they responded…to see God’s work within it and to identify areas for growth.”

As we talk to God about our day, we can thank Him for the places where He has helped us through people and circumstances, plus ask for His help with the next day.

The five elements of The Examen bring us closer to God

Following this discipline at the end of each day will aid your intimate communication with the Lord:

  1. Focus your mind on the presence of God. Get comfortable and breathe in slowly—deep into your belly. Invite His light.
  2. Thank God for the gift of the day:

The Lord has done it this very day;
    let us rejoice today and be glad. Psalm 118:24 NIV

  1. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you review the day’s events through your eyes and God’s.

Note moments for which you can praise God—from sustenance (food, shelter, sleep) to the people you encountered.  What went well? What gifts from God were present in the little things and everyday pleasures? Where was He present in each relationship?

  1. Look at your emotions and shortcomings. Talk to God unfiltered about a prominent emotion or reaction—what made you anxious, nervous, excited? Were you angry, embarrassed, or joyful? Where can you identify ‘wrongs’ in your life and in you? Know that He sympathizes. Surrender the negative feelings to Jesus at the foot of the cross.
  2. Ask Him to help prepare your heart for the next day. How can He equip you and refine your character with His wisdom, discernment, clarity, and peace? He knows you inside and out. Thank Him for coming alongside you.

Note: The steps above are aided by insights from Strahan Coleman on how to review the day with God via The Examen.

You Can Pray to the God of the Holy Bible about using  The Examen daily

Lord Jesus, prompt me to tap the elements of The Examen in my prayer life to edify me. I am excited to have the opportunity to review my day with You. What a relief it is to know that I can speak with You about every moment I have experienced. What a gift my life is! 

As I read Psalm 36:7-9, I am reminded—

How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! I take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.
I feast on the abundance of Your house; You give me drink from Your river of delights. For with You is the fountain of life; in Your light I see light.

You already know how much my husband and I want children, yet I recognize that You may want to use this experience to mold our characters. Would You strike us in our spirits to recognize where You have blessed us and redirect us to respond to the behavior Your Scripture teaches us? Make us aware of our strengths and shortcomings.

Thank You for Your counsel. I pray all this in Your name, Jesus. Amen.

Moving forward…

Ask yourself this:

When can I best add the elements of The Examen to my daily prayers?

Consider this challenge:

Try practicing The Examine every day for the next week.

Think about recording all of the blessings and thanksgiving you have noted in your journal each day.

Where is the Lord asking you to revisit behaviors that do not reflect His character? Can you locate some Scriptures that will remind you to follow His example?

Please share this post with someone who might benefit.

Peace be with you,

Kimberly

InfertilityPrayerResource.com

P.S. You won’t want to miss the following posts that will equip you for your journey:

Share This Post: