1Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Psalm 51:1

David, King of Israel, seems to have had “loving kindness / steadfast love” (hesed) as one of his deep defining values. When he lived divided from this heart value, he drifted and then moved swiftly into disaster.  When he lived close to it we observe him as a diligent shepherd, loyal friend, inspirational leader, and a shrewd king. When he got away from the most noble values formed by God in his character, David fails, commits breathtaking and callus acts of corrupted power, lust, murder, and deceit. (2 Samuel 11 – 12)

When David came to his senses and repented, he relied on God’s, as He is the true uncorrupted One of “loving kindness.”

How is it with you? What are the most noble values rooted deep in your story and heart? Are you living close to them? Have you come to moment in your life when your loss of integrity drives you to the Cross of Jesus for healing and forgiveness?

O God, Have mercy on me, according to your lovingkindness!