Date: Wednesday, 9th July, 2025
Text: Psalm 51:17
Author: Pastor Adedeji Fadehan
Exhortation:
As humans with very limited view and understanding we make our assessment of people based on their physical appearances as reflected by their actions, but the Almighty God looks deeper- 1 Samuel 16:7. He looks at the heart. He doesn’t just assess us based on our deeds or actions but by the intentions behind our actions- Proverbs 16:2.
A man can give all his belongings to the poor, not for the love of the benefactors but for some selfish reasons. In 1 Corinthians 13:3, Paul the apostle said, “If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.”
There is a state of heart that attracts the attention of God and there is another that repels him. The word of God says, “A broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.” Psalm 51:17.
A contrite heart hates past sins with a resolve to forsake them and make amends.
God values true repentance and humility over self justification and excuses. This was why David found God’s forgiveness and favour after confessing his sins and repenting from them; whereas his predecessor, Saul fell out of divine favour. He was all out to give excuses and justify his errors-1 Samuel 15; 2 Samuel 11-12.
A broken and contrite heart, characterized by sorrow for sin and a sincere desire for forgiveness and change, is welcomed and valued by God.
Action Nugget: Ask God for a contrite heart and a broken spirit which attracts his attention.
Bible in One Year: Proverbs 24-29