A Prayer For Good Motives

“I know, my God, that you examine our hearts and rejoice when you find integrity there. You know I have done all this with good motives, and I have watched your people offer their gifts willingly and joyously.

1 Chronicles 29:17-20

David’s prayer comes at a pinnacle moment in his reign as king—the dedication of gifts for the building of the Temple. As the people entered a new era in their relationship with the living God, David prayed that their motives would be pure. He knew that God was more concerned about the condition of people’s hearts than the silver and gold they were giving away. Even with all the authority he possessed as king, David could not accurately judge the motives behind the Israelites’ gifts. Only God could examine his heart and theirs. He prayed that God would find in their hearts integrity and a willingness to obey.

Follow David’s example. Ask God to make you a person of integrity—a person who willingly obeys.

• Dear Lord, examine my heart and help me always want to obey you . . .