Daily Journey: Day 220

Midpoint Integration: What Have You Been Noticing?

Scripture (ESV)

“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!” — Psalm 139:23

We’re halfway through this part of our journey, and I think it’s worth considering what we’ve been learning about ourselves. We’ve spent quite a bit of time examining how we respond when life doesn’t work the way we expected. Some of those reactions may have been obvious to us, while others probably deserved more attention than we’d given them.

One thing I’ve learned through leadership is that circumstances can reveal things about us that we wouldn’t have noticed otherwise. I may think I’m handling a situation well until I realize how much my frustration is affecting the people around me. Sometimes it’s only after stepping away from a difficult situation that I begin recognizing what was actually happening inside me.

That’s why I appreciate David’s prayer in Psalm 139. He’s asking God to help him recognize what he might be missing about himself. I think we need that same willingness to be examined, particularly when we’ve become comfortable explaining away our own behavior.

We’ve still got more ground to cover in this movement, but there’s value in considering what God has already brought to our attention. We don’t need to rush past something important just because we’re ready to move on.

Why this matters

Growth requires us to recognize patterns we may have accepted without questioning. Asking God to examine our hearts helps us become more honest about what still needs attention.

Reflection

What have you noticed about yourself during these last several weeks that you hadn’t recognized before?

Integration Reflection

No new word today. Take some time to consider what God may be showing you about the way you’ve been responding to life.