It’s What’s On The Inside

You said, “I am pure; I am without sin; I am innocent; I have no guilt.”

I KNOW I’VE SAID IT TO MY KIDS, and I remember my mother and my grandmother saying it to me. “It’s what’s on the inside that counts.” Money, prestige, beauty are all fleeting; character, integrity, and honesty last. Crisis doesn’t just build character—it reveals it.

I think that’s why I appreciate David’s prayer in Psalm 51. You see, he’s just blown it. He tried to run a cover-up scam, and the prophet Nathan blew the whistle on him. David realized that it’s what’s on the inside that counts! David prayed for God to give him a clean heart and to renew his spirit (verse 10).

How can we keep this type of right standing with God?

• Run away from sin; follow righteousness. (2 Timothy 2:22)
• Ask: Does this thought or action pursue peace, love, and righteousness?
• Walk into God’s presence and away from false beliefs. (Psalm 24:3-4)
• Ask: Does this action or attitude reflect God’s Word?
• Walk in the same path as your godly parents and grandparents. (2 Timothy 3:14)
• Ask: What would my God-fearing dad, my pure-hearted mom, or my spiritual mentor do in my situation?

And what are the benefits gained by a clean heart and clear conscience?

We will have quality friendships with people of influence. “One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend” (Proverbs 22:11, NIV).

And we will have a stronger life because we have no regrets and no hidden skeletons in the closet (Job 17:9).