In the World–October 6, 2024

Download “In the World” for October 6, 2024 here.

PURIFIED WATER

Researchers in China published an article last month in the journal Nature Communications about their development of a highly effective method of purifying saltwater. One strategy for desalinating water is to use a special membrane to block all salt and other impurities. Such a membrane would have to block contaminants, even liquid water, while allowing pure water vapor to pass through and form condensation on the other side. The scientists developed a membrane inspired by the surface structures of a bug called a springtail. Their surfaces feature unique structures that capture air pockets, which completely block water. This allows springtails to submerge themselves in water for days without getting wet. By replicating this surface in the lab and applying it to a membrane, the researchers created a way to reject 99.9% of salt in saltwater, leaving pure water on the other side.

PURIFIED HEART

Our text today shows David’s intense desire for God to purify his heart so that he might return to the joy of his salvation. He longs for the Lord to cleanse him from his sin and wash away his iniquities. By submitting himself to God’s mercy and ability to cleanse him from sin, David asks that his transgressions might be blotted out.

1. Why is water purification such an important issue today?
2. When have you felt an intense desire for God to purify your heart?
3. What is the Lord’s attitude toward us when we come to Him in repentance?

Additional Resources

Any videos or web materials are for your personal use. If you play any media files in class, be sure to have the necessary rights to do so.

• Contemporary Worship Weekly
• Echoes Worship Weekly
• Traditional Worship Weekly
• Ericka Shawndricka Dunbar, “Commentary on 2 Samuel 11:1–5, 26–27; 12:1–9; Psalm 51:1–9”
• Elizabeth Webb, “Commentary on Psalm 51:1–12”
• Bob Utley, “Psalm 51”