“Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.” -Psalm 139:4
Can you even imagine the magnitude of this verse from the Psalm of David? David is essentially stating that the Creator of the Universe, God himself, knows me…He knows you so intimately that the very synapses that spark rational thought and bring those thoughts to life through speech are already known to God. Essentially, the Artist has an intimate front-row seat to the canvas of our lives.
Is it no wonder then that David later states in verse six “Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.”
Have you ever worried about where your life was heading or, perhaps, you doubted that anyone even cared about you? David’s words today remind us that we are not only cared for that it goes much, much deeper than that – since before we even existed God knew us. Doesn’t that just blow your mind?
I recently graduated from college and I didn’t really want to make a big deal out of it, but at the insistence of my wife and family, we drove up to the school for the weekend so that I could participate in the graduation ceremony. I do not like pomp and circumstance and all of the regalia that goes along with it, but I did participate, and I’m really glad that I did. During that weekend my wife and my whole family made me remember why I had persevered through those difficult months of dissertation writing. I actually felt a little embarrassed that so much attention was being poured on me. That weekend was very special to me, and even though I initially bemoaned attending, I will forever remember that important milestone in my life and those who celebrated and cheered me on. I felt special, love was poured onto me on that unique and memorable moment.
In a very real sense, God desires to do the same thing in your life.
He wants to pour out such love and attention on you because you matter to Him and He knows how you have persevered through the trials of life. It might feel embarrassing to you to receive such honor and praise, but let Him love you. Receive it with open arms and gratitude.
When you pray, remember that God already knows what you’re going to say. Could it be that these prayers that we utter are for our benefit rather than His? Could it be that what God wants is a contrite heart and a humble spirit? He already knows what is on our hearts and what we are encountering in life. The act of supplication and prayer becomes an act of humility and obedience rather than treating God like some sort of genie in a bottle that doles out wishes.
The knowledge that God knows us so intimately that before we even say a word He hears and understands – it just blows my mind. I can see why David suggests that such knowledge of God is almost too much to take. Perhaps the next time we communicate with God, we should remember these words from this Psalm and bend our hearts and knees before the Almighty. He loves you so completely and longs to lavish you with His countless blessings.
Something more to ponder today.
-Until next time.
Pastor's Ponderings 
Thank you for sharing this insightful and inspiring reflection on Psalm 139:4. I appreciate how you explain the meaning and significance of this verse and how it shows God’s intimate knowledge and love for us. I also like how you share your personal story of graduating from college and how your family made you feel special and loved. I can relate to that feeling overwhelmed by God’s grace and attention. I agree that prayer is an act of humility and obedience, not a way of getting what we want from God. Your text has encouraged me to remember God’s presence and care in my life and to trust Him more. Thank you for your wisdom and faith. God bless you!