August 7, 2021: A Heart Yearning

“Teach me Your way, O Lord; I will walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your name” (Ps. 86:11, NKJV).

This verse has made a great impact on my life. Just below the chapter title, my Bible also includes these words: “A prayer of David.” Other than his incredible victory over Goliath, David is also remembered as a man after God’s own heart. Verse 11 gives us further proof of this. When you read through the Psalms, one thing is evident: David yearned for the Lord. He often praised God and declared His excellence. He meditated on the words of God throughout the day and night. He would ask God to examine his heart and prove him. These verses left a deep impression on me.

During my sophomore year of college, I decided to study the Bible for myself. Before then, I didn’t know much about Christianity, nor did I grasp the depth and power of God’s Word. As I began to study the Bible and pray more sincerely, the Holy Spirit began to change my heart. Psalm 86:11 resonated with me more and more. I added that verse to my prayers, and asked God to reveal His ways and His will to me. Like David, I began to desire a close and meaningful relationship with Jesus. Looking back, God has brought me a long way.

I’m still a work in progress, learning more each and every day, but I praise God that one thing hasn’t changed: My heart still yearns for Jesus. God has been so faithful to me. He is merciful and gracious. His promises are my hope and strength, and I continue to hold onto them.

Jesus, help us to devote ourselves to You and seek Your heart daily. Amen.

Jonathan Kim is a member of the Ellicott City church in Maryland.