WISDOM IN THE HIDDEN PART

" Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom."  (Psalm 51:6)

The fifty-first Psalm is a penitential one – an expression of profound repentance following David's sin with Bathsheba. It reveals to us that repentance involves more than sorrow over sin. It also includes a resolve to fully recover, avoid sin in the future, and appropriate the favor and benefits that come from God alone. In this verse, David acknowledges an understanding of the Lord that was not common at that time. Unfortunately, it is not common in our day either. He knows God has certain desires for us that relate to truth and wisdom. Truth refers to settled realities that do not change. Wisdom relates to the proper use of the knowledge of those realities. God wants both of these virtues to be found within His people. Surface religion that is rooted in external routines and procedures bring no glory to God. They are not what He desires. What He offers to us cannot be contained in a lifeless ritual. Only the essential part of us – the "hidden part," or "inward parts" has the capacity to hold truth and wisdom.
The "hidden" part refers to our heart, or inmost being. It cannot be seen with the human eye, and therefore is called "hidden." Nevertheless, it is an essential portion of our being, and is therefore called "part." It is hidden to others, but not to us, for it is an area where we can KNOW: "in the hidden part, make me to know wisdom." God makes us know by personally teaching us. It is not accomplished by a command, but by a process that is realized in fellowship with us. Knowing wisdom is being able to confidently translate the truth into living. It is knowing what to do in times of both blessing and testing. It is knowing how to respond to challenges and opportunities. Thus we are enabled to shun evil and cleave to good. We know when to speak and when to keep silence. We are then able to bring the Word of God to bear upon life's pathway and decisions.
Only God can make us know wisdom in the hidden part – where we think, purpose, hate, love, and will! But, He can surely do this, and we call upon Him to do so. We do not have to be ignorant and helpless. We do not have to walk in the dark and in confusion. The illuminating effects of Divine tutelage can be ours. It is right to ask for wisdom in the "hidden part."