Keith Green - Create in me a Clean Heart Lyrics
Lyrics
Create in me a clean heart, oh God
And renew a right spirit within me.
Create in me a clean heart, oh God,
And renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from thy presence oh Lord,
And take not Thy Holy Spirit from me.
Restore unto me, the joy of Thy Salvation,
And renew a right spirit within me.
Video
Keith Green: Create in me a Clean Heart
Meaning & Inspiration
"Create in Me a Clean Heart" by Keith Green, found on his 1977 compilation album *The Greatest Hits*, is far more than just a collection of catchy melodies; it's a profound spiritual plea rooted deeply in scriptural truth. The song draws its power directly from Psalm 51:10, a timeless prayer uttered by David after his grievous sin with Bathsheba. This foundational verse, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me," forms the very core of Green's musical offering. The message isn't about a superficial cleansing, but a radical internal transformation, a deep-seated yearning for a pure heart that aligns with God's will. The repetition of this central plea emphasizes the ongoing nature of this desire – it's not a one-time request, but a continuous posture of dependence on God's refining work.
The subsequent lines of the song echo the vulnerability and earnestness of the Psalmist, directly referencing verses like Psalm 51:11: "Cast me not away from thy presence, O Lord; and take not thy holy spirit from me." This speaks to a profound understanding of what it means to be truly connected to God – it’s about experiencing His presence and being guided by His Spirit. The fear of losing that connection, of being cast aside due to imperfection, is a powerful driver for seeking purification. Furthermore, the request to "Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation" is a direct echo of David's cry in Psalm 51:12. It highlights that true joy is intrinsically linked to walking in God’s favor and experiencing His saving grace, a joy that can be dulled by sin but is readily restored by a merciful God. The final reiteration, "And renew a right spirit within me," brings the song full circle, reinforcing the foundational need for a spirit that is rightly aligned with divine purpose. This entire lyrical framework isn't just evocative; it's a direct, scripture-informed petition for spiritual renewal, a powerful reminder that authenticity and transformation are at the heart of genuine faith, a message that resonates deeply through the decades.