Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. — Psalm 5:11.
How many times have you repeated the first part of this psalm? I certainly have said it like Arkansan’s vote — “early and often.” What I hadn’t noticed was the second part of the verse and the distinction drawn by the psalmist.
Our psalmist is asking that God “create” a clean heart, but “renew” a right spirit. Does this mean that we don’t begin with a “clean heart,” our that we are born with a “right spirit” and that it only needs renewal? Does our “right spirit” only need its batteries recharged, while our heart needs a transplant?
I learned today that such questions are worthy of a deep meditation or a slow walk in a park. It is interesting to note if you are considering which is more important — “a clean heart” or a “right spirit,” — that our psalmist asks for both.
I strive for both and often fall short. Fortunately Jesus gives credit for the effort and has an incredibly low bar for the curve He grades all of us on for eternity!
Thanks for the reminder.