The psalmist writes in Psalm 86:11—"Teach me your way, O LORD, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name."

In Psalm 86:11, David offers a raw prayer from a man under attack with a fragmented heart. Despite not being a novice, he humbly seeks divine guidance, acknowledging his inner turmoil. In times of trouble, he doesn't pretend to be perfect but seeks the only one who can heal his conflicted heart.

This prayer is for those divided by competing desires—parts that want to honor God and others drawn to the world's promises. Our loyalties are split, and our focus is scattered. Like David, we see this double-mindedness as a problem, trusting only God can unify us.

"Teach me your way, O LORD..." David's prayer primarily asks for guidance, not just knowledge, but to adopt a new lifestyle by following God's lead each day. Jesus later said, "I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6).

This request shows humility, acknowledging we can't navigate life alone. We must set aside our plans and rely on God's truth to guide us, praying for spiritual growth and the development of character. What areas need God's guidance? Instead of reacting, pause and say, "Teach me your way, O LORD."

David's desire to "walk in your truth" highlights that God's teaching aims for our actions, not just awareness. Walking in truth means aligning our lives with God's standards and practicing applied theology, where our beliefs align with our actions. When faith and daily life don't align, it shows our hearts need God's unifying work. Reflect on the gap between your beliefs and actions. Is there an area to begin living in God's truth?

...unite my heart to fear your name" is a deep plea for a unified heart solely devoted to God, with no competing loyalties. The Hebrew word implies gathering all parts of the heart into one purpose. This is God's work; we bring our fragmented selves to him and ask to reassemble them around a central affection. The unified heart aims to "fear your name"—not as terror but reverent awe for God's holiness. This fear is key to wisdom and joyful obedience. A heart united in reverence pushes aside worldly worries. What aspects of your inner life need to be unified? Which loyalties compete for your affection? How can you serve God with an undivided heart?

Gracious God, thank you for inviting us to be honest about our inner turmoil. We confess that our hearts are often divided between our love for you and our love for the world. Teach us your ways, O LORD, not just so we can know more, but so we can live according to your truth. Unite our hearts today, drawing every part of us toward a singular devotion to you. Bring our inner selves into wholeness so we may truly fear your name and glorify you in every facet of our lives. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Lord Teach Me Your Ways,

Gene
Because Life Begins at Calvary