For the Examination of Conscience

SPEECH

Have I spoken kindly today — to those I love, and to those who tested my patience?

"Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt."

— Colossians 4:6 (KJV)

FORGIVENESS

Did I forgive when forgiveness was owed — or did I hold the grudge close, where the Lord could not loose it?

"Forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you."

— Ephesians 4:32 (KJV)

ATTENTION

Did I look at the person in front of me today — or only past them, to whatever screen was brighter?

"Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might."

— Ecclesiastes 9:10 (KJV)

PRAYER

Did I speak to the Lord today, even briefly — or did I let the day pass without lifting my heart at all?

"Pray without ceasing."

— 1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV)

GREED

Did I want more than I needed today — and grumble that I did not have it?

"Be content with such things as ye have."

— Hebrews 13:5 (KJV)

HONESTY

Did I speak the truth — even when a small bend in the story would have made me look better?

"Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour."

— Ephesians 4:25 (KJV)

SERVICE

Did I see a small thing I could do for another, and do it — even though no one would notice or thank me?

"By love serve one another."

— Galatians 5:13 (KJV)

ANGER

When anger rose, did I let it sit and burn — or did I bring it before the Lord before the sun went down?

"Let not the sun go down upon your wrath."

— Ephesians 4:26 (KJV)

IDLENESS

Did I do the work given to me today — or did I scatter the day among small distractions, and find evening with little to show?

"Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord."

— Colossians 3:23 (KJV)

MERCY

Was I as gentle with myself as the Lord is with me — or did I lash myself with judgments he never spoke?

"The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy."

— Psalm 103:8 (KJV)