Create in Me a Pure Heart

Why can’t I get this right? Why do I keep missing the mark day after day? I’m steadfast, then I flounder, then I fail.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God.” Psalm 51:10a

David wrote these words as he craved forgiveness and yearned to be constructed into a better man. I too crave forgiveness for my actions contrary to You, Lord. I too want You to form me into a devout person.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God” when I fail in my role.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God” when I raise my voice to my children, my spouse.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God” when I let my stress rule the roost.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God” as I work.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God” as I clean.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God” as I interact with my neighbors, my community.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God” as I volunteer at church.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God” when I study the Bible.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God” when I come to you in prayer.

I want to repent of my sins, turn from them, and go forth in the Spirit to sin no more. I want to be faithful in living out my faith. This building up in You is what I need all day, everyday. I always want my heart to be made new, repentant, and faithful by You.

As a parent, help me to have a firm resolve yet a tender heart. Guide me to discipline and disciple with Your Word. Foster me to serve You and walk in Your ways with eagerness as I shepherd the youngest in Your flock.

I strive for pureness living inside of me to overflow into my words, my actions, my relationships, my decisions, my mood, my work, my prayers, my faith. Strengthen me to be confident in You.

I want a pure heart...

...when I disciple my children.

...when I converse with my spouse.

...when I interact with my neighbor.

...when I attend church.

...when I pray.

...when I live for You.

“Create in me a pure heart, O God.” Amen.