## 139:23
%% 5
> Search Me and Know My Heart
>> Search me, God, and know my heart. Try me, and know my thoughts. See if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.

Occasion: When my motives are mixed

Lord, here is the knot again ---
a good deed with my name attached,
a true word I want noticed,
a gift I want to give
and be thanked for.

I do not always know where generosity ends
and my hunger for admiration begins.

Search me.
Show me what in me is clean
and what is reaching sideways for applause.
Help me look honestly,
without excusing myself
and without turning this confession
into one more way to appear humble.

I can dress a selfish wish in flowery language
until even I believe it.

Make me plain before You.

Let me choose the hidden good ---
the task no one knows,
the gift no one traces,
the prayer said with the door shut.

And when my motives are still mixed,
keep me honest and teachable.
I may not be able to untangle
every reason I want what I want.
But You can see the whole knot.

Untie what I have pulled tight.

Make me plain, Lord.
Not split.
But whole.

Amen.