God Desires Our Broken Spirit and Contrite Heart
May 5, 2026
“Psalm 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, A broken and a contrite heart-- These, O God, You will not despise.”
Reflection
4th October 2023 It’s our 26th wedding anniversary today! LW and I had a pleasant dinner at an Italian restaurant in Chip Bee Gardens (Holland Village), followed by a sweaty walk in Botanic Gardens (Gallop Gables Extension) under very balmy conditions. It was my wife, LW, who reminded me of God's desire in Psalm 51:17. Am I offering my broken spirit and contrite heart to God? Am I humble or proud? God has humbled me. He has brought me to my knees, acknowledging that all that I have built with my own hands has been easily destroyed. What has survived the onslaught of current events? The fruit of the Spirit in me – His love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. It is with His fruit that I am now called to serve others.
Application
I have the sin of pride and God, in His infinite wisdom, has torn down my false assurances and fake pillars, revealing how weak my foundation actually is, when do not build my life in and around Christ, the cornerstone. I must humble myself and return to God with a contrite heart, surrendering all to Him.
I come to You, Lord, with knees bent and heart bowed. Forgive me for my foolish pride. Accept my broken spirit and contrite heart. Heal my spirit and mend my heart, that my union with You may be restored. Yes, heal my union with You, O Lord. I ask this in the holy and mighty name of Jesus. Amen.