Psalm 139:23-24 New International Version (NIV)

²³ Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.
²⁴ See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Like the Psalmist 

This psalm when read in its entirety depicts a person speaking to God and relating some of the wonders associated with his/her development that began in the womb. There is nothing that God does not understand about us. Yet he continues to care for us. We are created as instruments of God’s love to be share with the community.

Anne E. Streaty-Wimberly, Professor of Christian Education at The Interdenominational Theological Center, Atlanta, GA, states “Each of us also becomes an instrument of the truth of God’s assigned value and love, by what we do and say that mirrors this truth. This mirroring becomes possible only insofar as we are in relationship with God. This requires our giving up those things that make this relationship difficult or impossible.”

Beginning verses as well as the last two verses which are the focus of this devotional are basically identical with the psalmist saying to God to search the thoughts and intent of the heart and to make any changes that God determines are needed. Wimberly continues with this thought and states, “In the presence of the knowing God, we are relieved of all necessity of pretending. This does not mean that our limitations are extinguished and our sins are no longer sins. What it does mean is that in the presence of the knowing God, even our limitations and sins can be dealt with. There is nothing that cannot be understood and dealt with in our lives in the presence of the all-comprehending God.”

Prayer 

Father we come before you recalling the numerous times we have questioned our actions in numerous situations life presents. It is with sincere earnest that we express gratitude for your knowing who we are and the desires of our hearts to serve you. Thank you for the wonderful works you have placed within us to share with the community and the guidance you provide.

Thought for the day 

As we prepare to minister to the community let us ask God to do the same as the psalmist.