Clean Heart
“Create in me a clean heart, God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10, NASB
While trying to listen to the Word of the Holy Spirit as to what to write, I heard a few words. Not being sure as to which one to focus on, I thought, “Well, let’s make this a 'mishmash' message, or 'mixed bag' as another way to put it. And so, I shall.
The first word I want to consider is contentious. Have you ever spoken something, only to have another respond and say the opposite, or negatively, as if that were their mission in life: to be contentious?
If you observe and listen to some, they seem to carry in their spirit this counteraction to anything positive, to make sure one sees the “other side”. But is that always necessary? Do we always have to point out what the “what ifs” will be, and just go with a faith response, such as, “I hope that comes true”, or “Lord, Your will be done. Show me the good in this.”
Have we become so ingrained in negativity that we can’t see the Lord’s hand in everything?
At one time, we used to hear the saying, “So heavenly-minded that they are no earthly good.” I want to offer – maybe that is not so bad after all? To imagine the way the Lord would see things from His vantage point, certainly having a higher vision which is so much more vast than ours. And then try to imitate Him.
Think about it, and yes, try it sometime. When someone offers a point of view, try giving a positive or encouraging response, and avoid negativity. Maybe your needed attitude adjustment will get adjusted. I pray it be so.
And then that word which rises up in me sometimes. Jealousy.
As I again read the Scriptures about the prodigal son, found in Luke 15, personally, I still have to agree with the older son and ask, “Why not me?” (Just being honest here.)
We read of the elder son’s response, “But he answered and said to his father, ‘Look! For so many years I have been serving you, and I have never neglected a command of yours; and yet you never gave me a young goat, so that I might celebrate with my friends; but when this son of yours came, who has devoured your wealth with prostitutes, you slaughtered the fattened calf for him.” Luke 15:29-30, NASB
Of course, the father was right when he wanted to rejoice and give a party for the prodigal, repentant younger one, but I tend to agree with the elder. Or is it jealousy on my part? Would you have reacted the same way? Be honest.
I am still praying about my attitude regarding this story.
So, these are two words the Lord is working in my heart. I want to be more like Him and have a clean heart.
“Be gracious to me, God, according to Your faithfulness; according to the greatness of Your compassion, wipe out my wrongdoings. Wash me thoroughly from my guilt and cleanse me from my sin. For I know my wrongdoings, and my sin is constantly before me.” Psalm 51:1-3, NASB
Ahava and shalom,
Steve Martin
Message #3, 2026, “Clean Heart” Feb. 2, 2026
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