Devotional Page by Stuart Brannon

 

Pure Solid Gold

“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.” Psalm 139:23-24

It is said of David, king of Israel, that he was a man after God’s own heart. As we read this Psalm composed by the shepherd king, we begin to realize why.

David knows how God discerns the hearts of men: “Before a word is on my tongue, you, Lord, know it completely.” (V.4) He knows all too well of the inescapability of God: “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I go from your presence?” (V.7) He knows most assuredly of the goodness of the Lord’s guidance: “If I rise on the wings of dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me…” (V.9-10)

David praises God for his own miraculous nature: “I praise you for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” (V.14) He extols the Lord for his all-knowing power: “All the days ordained for me were written in your book before even one of them came to be.” (V.16) Finally, he condemn his enemies for their hatred of God: “Do I not hate those who hate you, Lord…I count them my enemies.” (V.21-22)

Ultimately what makes David a man after God’s own heart is the fact that he is completely devoted to his Lord and Maker. He lays himself bare to the Creator of the universe for he knows the Lord will search him, and test him, and prove him purging all undesirable elements away.

Do you want to know yourself? Know God. Though imperfect we are, in His image we are made. And when we open our hearts to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us and purify us from all unrighteousness—just like pure solid gold.

“For He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold.” Job 23:10