What does "the cleanness of my hands" signify in a Christian's life? Key Passage: Psalm 18:20-24 “The LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands He has repaid me. For I have kept the ways of the LORD and have not wickedly departed from my God. All His ordinances are before me; I have not disregarded His statutes. And I have been blameless before Him and kept myself from iniquity. So the LORD has repaid me according to my righteousness, according to the cleanness of my hands in His sight.” Phrase Unpacked • “Cleanness” pictures ceremonial and moral purity—nothing defiling, nothing hidden. • “Hands” in Scripture represent deeds and lifestyle (Job 17:9; Psalm 24:3-4). • Together the expression points to outward actions that flow from an undivided, obedient heart. Four Truths the Phrase Communicates • Innocence concerning known sin—no unresolved rebellion or secret iniquity (1 John 1:7). • Integrity in dealings with others—honesty, fairness, reliability (Proverbs 11:3). • Consistent obedience to revealed commands—walking in the light given (Psalm 119:105). • Readiness for worship and service—hands that can be lifted “without anger or dissension” (1 Timothy 2:8). How Christ Makes Clean Hands Possible • His blood “purifies our conscience from dead works” (Hebrews 9:14). • Confession brings divine cleansing (1 John 1:9). • The indwelling Spirit empowers new conduct (Galatians 5:16-25). Without the cross, no hands would ever be clean enough (Isaiah 64:6); through the cross, believers are declared righteous and enabled to live righteously. Living Out Clean Hands Daily • Guard the heart, the source of actions (Proverbs 4:23). • Quickly confess and forsake sin; refuse lingering compromise (Proverbs 28:13). • Feed on Scripture; let it wash and correct (Ephesians 5:26). • Keep short accounts with people—make restitution, forgive, tell the truth (Romans 12:17-18). • Serve generously; let clean hands become helpful hands (Ephesians 4:28). • Avoid defiling influences—media, relationships, practices that dull holiness (2 Corinthians 7:1). Caution Against Self-Righteousness David’s claim was never detached from grace (Psalm 18:35). Boasting in personal purity invites pride; boasting in the Lord secures humility (Jeremiah 9:23-24). Blessings Attached to Clean Hands • Unhindered fellowship with God (Psalm 24:4-5). • Confidence in prayer (James 5:16). • Credible witness before a watching world (Philippians 2:15). • Eternal reward “from the Lord, the righteous Judge” (2 Timothy 4:8). |
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