David wrote this prayer after his greatest personal failing and it reflected a sentiment that, despite his sinfulness, made David a man after God’s own heart. (Acts 13:22)
“Create in me a clean heart” is not a request for renovation – but a plea for new construction.…David desires to have his adulterous heart obliterated and replaced with a clean heart free from lust, selfishness, and pride.
“Renew a steadfast Spirit” is an appeal to be made faithful. David asks to have a loyal spirit restored within him that will allow him to please God and resist temptation.
Though he is a king, David is not decreeing what he plans to do for himself – he is begging God to do something for him. Trying to have communion with God any other way is a waste of time. Your sanctification is solely dependent on God’s authority and grace. All you bring to the table is your need.
David remorsefully admits his guilt and asks for forgiveness. He does not blame Bathsheba for bathing on the balcony. He does not excuse his infidelity by citing the pressure of being king. Nor does he attempt to minimize his sin…. He confesses in brokenness, offers no excuse, and repents.
To chase after God’s own heart is to agree with His standard. To acknowledge His truth as the only truth. To have a clear mirror that shows your faults. No deflection. No justification. No self-help theory…Just a recognition of your corruptness, and a desire for forgiveness and transformation.
No matter how catastrophic your fall has been… you can be redeemed. You need a clean heart - and a spirit that is loyal to your King. You cannot acquire either of these through good works, or religious ceremonies…so run to God and find them in Him…abandon all hope except the hope based on God’s sacrificial mercy.
Desperately cling to God… Be a man after His own heart. Nothing satisfies the soul like unpolluted fellowship with your Heavenly Father. And nothing will bring change to your life – except a humble recognition that you are morally bankrupt - and a deep longing to have God make you new.
“I want to deliberately encourage this mighty longing after God. The lack of it has brought us to our present low estate.” - A.W. Tozer
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