Examination of Conscience (Ephesians 4:25-32)

In addition to other sins we can think about easily during an examination of conscience, these verses are some we should pray through as well. You already know if you have gone to Mass on Sunday. But have you grieved the Holy Spirit (verse 30)? Did you let your Bible remain closed as you read through another novel? Did you say “I don’t have time for prayer this morning” after you scrolled through social media for 30 minutes? Did you allow worldly things to take you away from time with God?

Have you been generous with your time with your spouse? Have you paid attention to their concerns and put away falsehoods (verse 25)? Have you allowed resentment and bitterness towards your spouse to take root (verse 26)? Or allowed for misunderstandings to cause anger or mistrust? Have you manipulated your spouse to get your own way?

Have you spoken sharply or sarcastically to your spouse, children, friends, family, etc. (verse 29)? Have you spoke in a demeaning way? Have you injured someone through taunting or teasing? Have you gossiped about your spouse? Your children? Have you undermined the authority and dignity of your spouse? Have you undermined the role of authority in the eyes of your children by speaking negatively against God, the Church, your spouse, or others who hold authority over them?

Have you cared for the spiritual needs of your children? Have you taught your children the gospel and commandments? Have you prayed with them? Have you disciplined when necessary? Have you been lazy and apathetic? Have you taught them forgiveness (verse 32)?  Have you been a good Christian witness in all that you do?

Have you been frustrated or impatient with your spouse, children, family, etc (verse 27)? Have you treated them with respect? Have you fostered hatred toward “political” enemies? Have you been prejudiced towards others because of race, color, religion, or social status?

Have I lied about my work? Have I been lazy in my job, calling, or ministry? (verse 28)

These are some really deep, thoughtful and soul searching questions. Any yeses here requires asking forgiveness. I actually have a questionnaire on my phone that I keep to do a deep examination before I go into confession. Sometimes we don’t realize the little things we have done because we keep focus on the big ones. Paul reminds us that if we are in a new life in Jesus, then we should turn from all the old ways. That includes turning away from anger, lying, falsehoods, cheating the system, using foul language, and taking time away from the Holy Spirit to enjoy worldly desires.