But God, how can I ....??? Day 26

Please read Psalm 51:10-13

“Arthur Spears, a 63-year-old London accountant, was afraid of doctors and hospitals. So much so, that when he needed bladder surgery recently, he did it himself. The resulting infection killed him. 'Unfortunately, (his) drastic remedy went wrong,' the coroner said. 'A simple operation would have solved the problem.'”(Reuters,1994). In a similar vein, many people do not trust God. In their self-reliance, they destroy themselves.

Apostle Paul, on the other hand, teaches us to rely on God. For example, in Romans 7:24-25, he writes “²⁴ Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” and then he himself provides the one and only answer “²⁵ Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!”

David also realizes, as a man dead in his sin, the need for personal revival. That revival comes only after his confession and pleas. In today's text, he has quite a few requests - a pure heart, a steadfast spirit, (God’s) presence, (God the) Holy Spirit, joy of salvation and finally a willing spirit. David knows, by himself, he cannot produce a willing spirit – only God, in his Sovereign grace, can gift it to David.  Paul also teaches, “ it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:12-13).

Dear brother and sister in Christ, how do you respond when God the Holy Spirit prompts you to do good works (Ephesians 2:8-10), especially in sharing the good news and your faith with others? Are you terrified and petrified? Humbly ask God to give you a willing spirit so you can be equipped and emboldened to do whatever God wants you to do. He will perform great works for His Glory and His Kingdom through you.

Dear God, in my wisdom I try and try and fail to do your works in your kingdom. In you wisdom, please equip me to do your will by graciously granting me a willing spirit in order to  “teach transgressors your ways” so that “sinners will return to you.” In Jesus name, Amen.