Psalm 139: An open book

by Andy Flood

Psalm 139 (NIV)

What a wonderful song of the depths of the knowledge that God has of us!
He know us inside out, He has been there the whole time, watching us and delighting in us as only a Father can.

He knows everything, He sees everything, He is everywhere. He is never lacking in wisdom, never lacking in knowledge and never lacking in power.
We cannot hide from Him, even though from the beginning we have tried, I mean even Adam and Eve thought they could hide behind a tree!

Why is it then, that when we feel the prick of our conscience and the conviction of sin. We try and run away?
Do we really believe that God is standing over us with a stick, just waiting to give us a good hiding?

David has realised here that running is not an option. He knows the best option is be an open book with God. He says:

Search me, 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 NIV)

It's of no benefit, whatsoever, to let un-repented sin stew in our hearts, festering while we work out a way to polish a turd, in an attempt to make it presentable to God
Surely, how we all long to be is, to keep a short account with our saviour, calling out to him to search our hearts and where we fall short. Looking to Him for our restoration, and to lead us the way everlasting.

Lord we need your Spirit to do a work in us, soften our hearts, tenderise them, make them wholly yours. Make us sensitive to sin that could so easily fester in our souls. Our desire is to be an open book with you, always keeping a short account with you.
You're amazing that You know us so intimately, THANK YOU.