Psalm 139:23a, "Search me and know my heart..."
Psalm 19:12, "Who can discern his own errors? Cleanse me from my hidden faults."
In today's verse, David asks God to "search him and know his heart." David knew that God was all-knowing. He understood that God was all-too-familiar with his shortcomings. So why did David ask God to search him? The simple fact is this: he wanted to know them as well. He wasn't naive to the fact that sin is often a blindspot, and wanted to expose and root out anything that displeased God at the deepest depths of his soul.
Such transparency and vulnerability take great courage. David's devotion to God and his desire for understanding should inspire us to do the same. Not only was He asking God to reveal offenses, but he was also asking for guidance to rid himself of them altogether.
If we're brave enough to ask God to search us, what might He reveal? Fear? Bitterness? Jealousy? Selfishness? Pride? Unforgiveness? Acknowledgment of sin is the beginning of healing. Are you willing to ask God to shine light into the deepest depths of your heart and make the necessary changes?
Listen to what God is telling you about the condition of your heart. Journal everything that He brings to mind, and discover the beginning of true healing!
Dear God, Search my heart and reveal to me anything that displeases You. Forgive me for my selfishness and my sin. Remove any hardened attitudes and help me to live in a way that brings honor to Your name. Amen.