Time out for Self-examination

Read Psalm 7.

Regular check-ups are a part of a good physical health regimen, along with some daily exercise.  Too often, the only time some folks go to the doctor is when there is a big problem.  The need is the same for one's spiritual life.  Daily coming before God for spiritual cleansing and filling with the Holy Spirit is a key to spiritual health and growth.

Yet, most often it requires a major threat to cause us to finally stop and take stock as to where we are and what we need to do going forward.  That is what David wrote about here.  He was facing a threat from enemies who wanted to take his life.  From the inscription, it appears to be a verbal one.  In turning to God for help, his first thoughts were to check and see if there was anything he did to cause this.  If he did something wrong, then he merely was getting what he deserved.

Here is his prayer list as he conducted the self-examination before God.

1. "Save me." (v.1)

Everyone facing a life and death situation has prayed for deliverance, from a soldier in battle to one fighting cancer and major times stress.  No one wants life to end under such duress.

2. "Awake for me." (v.6)

He called upon the God of heaven to intervene and display His power in his circumstances.  God is the ultimate and all-powerful Judge.  He wanted to see God take action on this threat.

3. "Judge me." (v.8)

David realized that God's judgment worked both ways and not only on his enemies.  Though, he felt confident before the LORD that his life was righteous and had integrity.

4. "Test me." (v.9)

Knowing that God would deal with the evil-doers, he acknowledged that the LORD tests "the minds and the hearts" of everyone for righteousness and integrity.  His heart was open for God to point out anything that was wrong within him.  He wanted to be sure that he was right with God.

The proof one's faith and spiritual health is what happens next.  Fear is the opposite of faith.  To remain in fear is evidence of a spiritual weakness.  Only after the examination and prayer could David break out with such confidence in thanking God and praising His name.