| Psalm 139:23 – “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.” |
Many years of my working life were spent traveling for my job – for almost 10 years I was on 2-3 flights every week. Connecticut one week, California the next: I racked up an amazing number of frequent flyer miles! Because I flew so often, I was an expert traveler and glided through security without any ordeal. Or at least I did until 9/11 happened.
Suddenly the entire world was faced with the need to protect millions of flyers each day. Overnight there were new rules: Take off your shoes and belt; Empty your pockets; Allow yourself to be patted down aggressively by total strangers – it was the price we paid for the privilege to fly. Each time the security alerts seemed to be more random, and everyone’s frustration and anxiety continued to rise. One time it was a package of gum in my purse that set off the alarm – another time it was a small stapler I carried with me for my job. I had nothing to hide, so ultimately the searches were little more than a nuisance. But it never became a pleasant experience.
In today’s verse, David is asking to be searched – he wanted God to find anything that was out of place or needed to be removed. Do we boldly approach God and ask for him to find any hidden resentment or jealousy or unforgiveness? Do we really want to give up those things? Or do we hope that we can glide by with our hidden sins kept out of sight?
Prayer: Dear Father – I want you to search my heart as you did David’s. I want nothing hidden from you. Show me things I need to get rid of, and places where things are lacking. I come before you boldly, knowing you only want what is best for me. Help me to obey and follow your instructions for my life. Amen
– Betty Gossell
