So much to do and so little time.  Every day holds a commitment or responsibility of its own.  There is a weight of expectations around me, whether my own or from others.  I find myself slipping into the habitual patterns of life. Going through tasks before me emotionless or without premeditated thought.

It is time for a renewed heart.

As I was reading this morning in Psalm 5 a verse struck me pretty deep. This is part of David’s prayer after his affair with Bathsheba. The Passion Translation states part of David’s prayer, “Let my passion for life be restored, tasting joy in every breakthrough you bring me.”  His prayer is to renew his heart because he knows he lost his passion for life?

He feels the demands of a kingdom, the weight of war, a life where every move is watched and critiqued. Now feeling the judgment from the affair, the guilt and condemnation. David is so raw in expressing his emotions that lie deep within his heart. The vulnerability shown while praying for a renewed heart.

What about me? Do I need to renew my heart in a task driven world?

I am so grateful for the life I am able to live. We are living today what was once a prayer. Looking at my family, the ministry we are serving in, and the moments we are experiencing, I would not have thought then that this is where I would be at today. When I acknowledge the journey that lead me to where I am now, I stand in awe. I am amazed and so very thankful for the opportunities He has placed in front of us individually and as a family.

As I focus my eyes on the day to day task, I start to develop tunnel vision. Very soon my joy slips away. It happens without ever realizing it until it is gone! Now as I look at what used to excite me, I realize it is a list of tasks I must complete.

When a blessing begins to feel more like a curse it is time to renew my heart.

Years ago I was praying for a nice house, a big family, full-time ministry amongst many other things. And I remember thinking “That’s the life I want. It would be fun, and there would be so many joyous moments.” Now in reality, I absolutely love everything about my life. But in the same breath it is so easy to get caught up in the day to day routines. Secretly desiring this busy season to pass to one day enjoy special moments again. The reality of one busy season of life leads to another and another. The center of my focus shifting to the busy calendar and the physical aspects I am responsible for once again. I am so drained in the things that I once prayed for.

David goes on and says “The fountain of your pleasure is found in the sacrifices of my shattered heart before you.”

I truly believe King David gives us a key to restoring joy in our life regardless the expectation we feel, the pressure of the various seasons we are in, or the things we do.

My restored joy in the Lord is found in being vulnerable before Him. Being honest with myself and the Lord about my emotions, my thoughts, my desires and expectations.

I can feel the breath of renewed passion for life and ministry, even when things are busier now more than before. The joy comes as I lock eyes with Jesus. My heart is to obey that which He asks of me. All I do is choose obedience to that which I hear. The outcome is the Lord’s.

Want to take the next step?
… If you like what you read, subscribe now. Explore my faith-based printables, devotionals, and Bible study tools over in the shop. Everything is created to help you grow in grace, right where you are. Visit the shop now