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| Prayer (Photo credit: Chris Yarzab) |
Search me, O God, and know my heart!
Try me and know my thoughts!
Psalm 139:23
English Standard Version (ESV)
The above quote strikes me as a rather bold statement. One would have to be very confident to say this to God--or have a sincere attitude of repentance with a true desire to do what is right in God's eyes.
Yet God knows our hearts and our very thoughts and minds. We are assaulted by what the world tells us. That input of data jumbles in our heads to taint our hearts. God offers His way and so much of the time we want to do things our way. What we want. What others want. What the world wants.
We can't have it both ways if the world is not for God. Sometimes we have to say no to ourselves, others, and the world. It's essential for us to seek what God wants for us because that is what is best for us. God's way is the key to our salvation.
Pray. Seek counsel of those of good repute. Study the scripture. And pray some more.
When we strive to dwell within the heart of God, then we become closer to having a cleaner heart within us.
Yet God knows our hearts and our very thoughts and minds. We are assaulted by what the world tells us. That input of data jumbles in our heads to taint our hearts. God offers His way and so much of the time we want to do things our way. What we want. What others want. What the world wants.
We can't have it both ways if the world is not for God. Sometimes we have to say no to ourselves, others, and the world. It's essential for us to seek what God wants for us because that is what is best for us. God's way is the key to our salvation.
Pray. Seek counsel of those of good repute. Study the scripture. And pray some more.
When we strive to dwell within the heart of God, then we become closer to having a cleaner heart within us.
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:2
English Standard Version (ESV)
Never thought about the boldness of Psalm 139:23 before, Arlee, but you are absolutely right. Guess I am more inclined to approach God like Hebrews 10:31, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." And yet, Scripture tells us otherwise! "So let us come boldly to the very throne of God and stay there to receive his mercy and to find grace to help us in our times of need." (Hebrews 4:16)
ReplyDeleteDidn't mean to preach--your words just sparked all these scriptures and got me on a roll! LOL! Thanks, Arlee!
Hi Arlee,
ReplyDeleteNice to be here again,
Great thought for the day
Thanks Arlee. I know He listens to my prayers. :)
ReplyDeletePsalm 139 is very special to me. This is the second post I have found this morning quoting from it! Sue
ReplyDeleteGood to see this post and to be reminded of what matters most. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteIt's not always easy, especially when we're so bombarded. Worse than that though is the discouragement of trying to do the right thing, only to see how little effect it has sometimes. Trust in God is so important. Keeping faith in the darkness is a challenge, but only then can we have the courage to open our hearts to God.
ReplyDelete