Scripture Verse: Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! Psalm 139:23-24 ESV
Bible Reading: Psalm 40:2; Romans 7:15-20; Hebrews 12:1-3
This week’s set of devotionals is taken from Mind Gum: Devotions for Men by Todd Stahl and Joe Amaral. Used with permission.
As I’m writing today’s devotional, I’m sitting at a service station, getting the oil in my car changed.
It’s one of those things you know you have to do, but you don’t like to because it can end up being expensive and time-consuming. You do it because you know it’s important. I always heard the best kind of maintenance is preventative.
Some places try to up-sell you on various services. I never know what actually has to be done versus what they’re just pushing. The mechanic told me my cabin filter was dirty and the transmission fluid needed to be changed. It was a lot more money than anticipated, but I know sometimes you have to bite the bullet and get it done.
I couldn’t help but think of the comparison to our spiritual well-being. Let’s be honest, we all have filters that vary in how dirty they are. Just like the car, the environment we put ourselves in will determine the level of pollution that tries to enter into our souls. It’s not an easy thing to do, but as men, I can’t stress how important it is that we pay attention to this.
In today’s verses, the Psalmist asks God to search his heart. That can be a really scary thing to do.
We know what God is going to find. No matter how much we try, how much we pray, or how much we read the Bible, the bottom line is we are all men and are subject and susceptible to the influence and effects of sin.
When it comes to my vehicle, I’m the one who has to pay the price. Someone else has to do the work and then bring me the bill.
I don’t know about you, but I’m so thankful that Jesus paid the price for my spiritual oil change.
Even though we don’t like to do it, we understand how important it is to keep our souls, our minds, and our hearts in check. Are you brave enough to ask God to search your heart?
As important as an oil change is to a car, so is the regular maintenance of our hearts. Is it time for an oil change today? Are you ready and willing to put in the necessary work to make sure you keep your motor running clean?
Prayer: Father, I will repeat the prayer of the Psalmist: Search me! Show me where my heart is not where it needs to be. Show me what is hidden that I am missing, and show me the path forward. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Reflection: Take some time and reflect on these things. Write down a few things that God brings to mind as you do so. Share them with another man that you trust, and ask him to pray for you.
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