A Psalm a Day Keeps Satan Away: Psalm 51
Create in Me a Clean Heart, Oh God
Psalm 51
Yes … this one is a top fiver on everybody’s list! Technically, Psalm 51 is categorized as a lament (complaint) psalm, but immediately one recognizes a different tone. There is no shaking of fists at G-d because of the writer’s plight as is typical of most laments. This prayer is the psalmist’s confession of sin. It is stark, real and vulnerable. The psalmist is totally empty and spent as a result of his transgressions. He kneels before the Great I AM with nothing to offer. He is submitting to G-d in desperate need of forgiveness and salvation. And he trusts that G-d will deliver forgiveness and salvation.
The petition includes an 11-fold “ask” of G-d to restore a right relationship with him. (v. 7-14) The theological position is clear: G-d desires a contrite heart and broken spirit rather than sacrifices (confer with yesterday’s reflection on Psalm 50). ONLY after we come to G-d in this condition, and after forgiveness and salvation is granted, can we offer “righteous sacrifices” to G-d. (v. 18) That sequence is critical. Obedience is always the response to G-d’s forgiveness and salvation, not the reason for it. Once again, those who think Judaism (and Christianity) is a religion of laws practiced to gain G-d’s favor are, in my opinion, thinking incorrectly. G-d has always demanded first and foremost a contrite heart and broken spirit offered to Him in submission. We see that in yesterday’s and today’s text very clearly.
The problem is that the people of ancient Judaism, and if we are honest with ourselves, we as modern-day Christians, have built up a system of “requirements” to be in proper relationship with G-d in the form of “laws” and traditions that must be adhered to. We have made our relationship with G-d too complicated!
Today, I ask that you take a few moments to step back, tune out the world, tune out the complicated “religious” stuff and pray the words of Psalm 51: 10 – 12 (one of the first passages I memorized as a young believer): “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence or take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of your salvation and sustain a willing spirit within me.”
Shalom שָׁלוֹם
DWach
PS … I asked DJ Revonda to dig deep into the archives to find a classic Praise and Worship song from the “early days” based on this Psalm 51: 10-12. It is performed by Keith Green, one of the pioneers of Praise and Worship music, who tragically died in a car accident at the prime of his career. As a bonus, we have another rendition offered by Assistant DJ Greg, who sent me a more contemporary rendition from a Christian ensemble that includes Mac Powell from Third Day.