Daily Devotional - Possibilities: The Garden of the Heart - Week 29 - Day 193 - 7/12/26 - "The Courage to be Searched by God"

Author: Evangelist Crystal Poston

“The Courage to be Searched by God”
Scripture: Psalm 139:23-24, NKJV

"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."

Devotion:
In this Psalm, David expressed a deep desire for God to examine his heart, refine his character, and guide him according to His truth. Instead of trying to hide his weaknesses, David invited God to examine every part of his life, trusting that the One who created him and knows him completely will guide him in a way that is pleasing to Him.

Yes, it takes a brave and humble spirit to invite God to search our hearts, because there are often hidden attitudes, desires, or hurts that we want to hold on to instead of surrendering to Him. But it is only when we open every part of our heart to God that He can mold us into the people He is calling for in these last and evil days.  We cannot grow spiritually if we do not allow the Holy Spirit to reveal what is not pleasing in God’s sight. His conviction is to lead us toward repentance, healing, and a closer walk with Him.

So, trust Him today, and surrender all as the hymn writer expressed, "I surrender all... all to Thee, my blessed Savior, I surrender All." Allow Him to expose areas in your life that are not pleasing to Him, and He’ll provide the grace for you to make the necessary changes. He does not only want to point out our faults, His desire is to guide us "in the way everlasting;" which is the path of righteousness, peace, and eternal life.

Prayer:
Father, search my heart and reveal anything that is not pleasing to You. Examine my thoughts, attitudes, and motives, and help me to see myself through Your eyes. Remove anything that keeps me from walking closely with You, and fill me with Your truth, grace, and love. Let my life reflect the character of Jesus in all that I say and do. In Jesus' name, Amen.