Psalm 139:1–12, 23–24 // Inviting God to search us // Dale Piscura
As we begin the season of Lent, our desire as a community of faith is to draw near to God, that we may celebrate with great joy—and with one another—the resurrection of our Lord Jesus.
We begin with the remarkable Psalm 139, written by David. In verses 1–12, we are reminded that God sees all and knows all—our words, thoughts, deeds, and intentions. As David remarks in verses 4 and 6:
“O Lord, you know it all together.”
“Such knowledge is too wonderful for me.”
We can celebrate the glorious attributes of God, knowing that His perfect knowledge of each of us is joined with His perfect love. Even before I was born, God knew me. Even before my first breath, He began His divine scrutiny of my life. My best moments and my darkest moments have been observed in totality.
Recently, I have been—somewhat reluctantly—under medical and dental care. Science has provided technologies that allow us to see hidden conditions. Professionals pursue realities that lie beyond our senses. They care enough to scan and x-ray, sometimes in uncomfortable ways. They order tests, and I submit, knowing there may be alarming results that lead to corrective procedures.
David pleads with the Lord to search his soul thoroughly (verses 23–24). He also knows that God can lead him to the cure—the purification of his life and deliverance from sin. David desired God’s nearness, the blessedness of His presence. To experience this intimacy, a cleansing of sin is required.
Question to Consider:
Will you ask for God’s gaze? Will you agree with His search results? Will you dare to invite this divine scan?
Prayer Prompt:
Let us pray for one another, that we would regularly engage with God in pursuit of spiritual health. Let us pray not only for divine examination, but also for hearts willing to welcome His holy presence.
