Psalm 139: 23 -24
“Search me, O God, 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.”
We search the scene when a crime is committed. We search for a cure when disease is devastating. We search for probable cause when disasters strike. Don’t we? But very often, we call for a search after the problem is apparent. But here in Psalm 139, David is calling for a search before a problem arises. He is searching for pre-problem purification.
1. SEARCH ME
Hebrew word for ‘search’ is translated explore, inquire, probe. So am I willing to volunteer as a subject of God’s thorough and diligent examination? Not one day but today?
2. KNOW MY HEART
This “Know” reflects the most intimate relationship possible between God and mankind. Ask God to be completely and personally familiar with our heart. This must give God access to every area of our lives. Do we really know God because He really knows our hearts!
3. TEST ME
Are there breaches of inner integrity in us? David knew that his future could be sabotaged by unseen compromises. Ask God to examine our lives for potentially fatal flaws. Will we pass the test with flying colours?
4. KNOW MY ANXIOUS THOUGHT:
Anxious thoughts! They show a restless mind influenced by whispers of fear. Sound familiar? It does to me! Our thought-life? Often an ongoing venue of unseen wrestling with worry. So invite God to be our coach and mentor today. Let Him wrestle with our worries! He is in control.
5. SEE IF THERE IS ANY OFFENSIVE WAY IN ME
Be concerned about anything that could hurt or offend God. Point out, Lord, anything in me that offends you. Let our lives reflect a longing to live in such a way that we never grieve God or the Holy Spirit. How are we doing with this?
6. LEAD ME IN THE WAY EVERLASTING
Proverbs 14:12 “There is a way that seems right to man, but in the end it leads to death.”
Saul took the way of man! David did not want to go down the same way. We don’t want to go down the same path either. So Lord, guide us please into Your ways. Guide us please with Your presence.
Search me, Lord. What are You going to find? What does my heart look like? Search me Lord! (SUBIACO COC)