Here’s My Heart

HERE’S MY HEART

a prayer to open

Here’s my heart, Lord. Speak what is true.

Here’s my life, Lord. Speak what is true.

You have done many good things for me, LORD,

just as you promised.

I believe in your commands;

now teach me good judgment and knowledge.

I used to wander off until you disciplined me;

but now I closely follow your word.

You are good and do only good;

teach me your decrees.

Arrogant people smear me with lies,

but in truth I obey your commandments with all my heart.

Their hearts are dull and stupid,

but I delight in your instructions.

My suffering was good for me,

for it taught me to pay attention to your decrees.

Your instructions are more valuable to me

than millions in gold and silver.

You made me; you created me.

Now give me the sense to follow your commands.

May all who fear you find in me a cause for joy,

for I have put my hope in your word.

I know, O LORD, that your regulations are fair;

you disciplined me because I needed it.

Now let your unfailing love comfort me,

just as you promised me, your servant.

Surround me with your tender mercies so I may live,

for your instructions are my delight.

Bring disgrace upon the arrogant people who lied about me;

meanwhile, I will concentrate on your commandments.

Let me be united with all who fear you,

with those who know your laws.

May I be blameless in keeping your decrees;

then I will never be ashamed.

The words of this psalm may seem more like aspiration than reality. Is it possible for our wayward hearts to obey God’s commands fully? Do we need to try harder? Yes and no. Just trying harder isn’t the answer. Rather, God asks us to surrender our hearts to him and partner with his Spirit as he transforms us over time into people who naturally obey his commands. This is a lifelong process, but by God’s guidance and grace, our desires eventually become his desires, and our ways his ways. How might our lives be shaped if we began each day by surrendering our hearts anew to his transformative work?

• Read this passage again slowly. What word or phrase stands out to you? Why do you think that word or phrase speaks to you? What does it say?
• Which of God’s commands are hardest for you to follow? Why? Describe to God the difficulty you are having. Is there a friend or family member you could also share that with this week?
• Reflect on the areas of your life that seem out of step with God’s desires for you. What needs to be transformed or healed in you in order for you to be more aligned with God? What do you sense him asking of you to partner with him in that transformation?

Lord, I pray that this psalm would be true of me. Help me surrender my heart to you and your work more fully. Be merciful and gentle with me as you guide me. Transform my desires to align with yours. Heal the hurts and wounds that can misguide my steps and reactions. I give you my heart. Amen.