“Now and again the psalmists pray for judgment on their enemies, but sometimes they catch themselves in the process and examine their own souls, lest their cry for divine vengeance get completely out of hand. In Psalm 139, the writer has just asked God to send judgment on his enemies; but without pausing for a breath he continues, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24). The writer thinks he is right, and thinks it deeply enough that he is ready to pray judgment on someone else. And yet, he pauses to confess that he just could be wrong, that there might be some “wicked way” in him, so he urges God to search out his heart. He invites the convicting guilt that will compel him to repent.” Dr. Ellsworth Kalas, “Longing to Pray”
Prayer prompt: If there is one thing that we need more of in our world it is examination of our own souls, and most of all when we think we are right. What are you most certain about today? Is there anyone or any group of people who you are, “ready to pray judgment on”? Consider them, then pray that God will search out your heart and if needed invite the convicting guilt of God to compel you to repent.