Read Psalm 139

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23–24)

Undoubtedly, this is one of the most beautiful psalms ever penned by David. It is a psalm which highlights both the frailty of mankind and the strength of the Almighty. It is full of the most wonderful theology about God.

David speaks of God's omnipresence (God is present everywhere, see Psalm 139:7-9), God's omniscience (God knows everything, see Psalm 139:2) and God's omnipotence (God is powerful over all, see Psalm 139:10). Furthermore, David speaks of God as the Light, the Creator of All, and the Everlasting One (see Psalm 139:12-16).

Truly, there are few sections of Scripture that so eloquently portray God's attributes adorned with worship and prayer! David was a masterful poet, indeed.

When we consider such glorious attributes about our God, how could we possibly respond? Once again, David has the words. The outline of his response is found in verses 23-24.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23–24)

In light of who God is, we must ask the Lord to search our hearts. Ah! — but He already knows it, you say. Why test the Lord? But it is not a test of the Lord, but a test of our trust in Him! When we ask the Almighty One to search us, we are laying ourselves bare before Him to show us our wickedness. Why would any man dare ask such a thing unless he believed in the mercy and grace of God? How truly terrifying, yes, but how truly worshipful as well! This is what it means to fear the Lord.

If we are to be conformed to the likeness of Christ, we must become aware of our wickedness so God can purge it out of us. Praise be to God that He is tender in His discipline and the Holy Spirit is gentle in His conviction. There is no greater joy and freedom than to be made like Christ our Savior, and molded into a vessel of honor useful for the Master.

Therefore, Beloved, we must ask God to search us! We must! Make it your daily aim.

Is there pride? Pray the Lord to search it out and bring it to the surface. He will reveal what must be buried with Christ. Are you anxious? Lay your worries at the Almighty's feet and He will show you the way of peace. Is there war with habitual sin? Pray the Lord to shed His light on it so you will be led to repentance. Are you lost in your life? Ask the Lord to lead you, and He certainly will guide you in the way of everlasting.

“Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; Try my mind and my heart. For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes, And I have walked in Your truth.” (Psalm 26:2–3)

‍