Psalms 131, 133, 138-141, 145
Psalm 139:23a, "Search me 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."
What if all of your thoughts, actions, and motivations were broadcast on a screen for everyone to see? Scary, right? In today's reading, David asks for that kind of transparency. He asks God to search every bit of his heart. God knew David's shortcomings, so why did David ask God to search him? The simple fact is, David wanted to know them as well. He wanted to expose and root out anything that displeased God at the deepest depths of his soul. Such vulnerability takes great courage. David's devotion and desire for understanding should encourage us to do the same. Not only was David 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? Bitterness? Jealousy? Selfish motives? Fear? Unforgiveness? Whenever He reveals our sins, it's the beginning of healing. Like David, are you willing to ask God to shine light into the deepest levels of your heart and make the necessary changes? Doing this allows you to draw nearer to God and increases your ability to hear His voice. And it will put a smile on His face because He wants nothing more than to lead you in the way everlasting!
Dear God, Search my heart and reveal to me anything that is holding me back. Forgive me for my selfishness and sin. Remove any hardened attitudes and help me to live in a way that brings honor to Your name. Amen.