How do we know we need a new heart?

David's plea in Psalm 51 demonstrates a profound awareness of his sinful condition. He states, 'Behold, I was shapen in iniquity' (Psalm 51:5), highlighting the necessity for a change in his nature, which can only come from God. According to sovereign grace theology, every person is born with a heart that is inclined toward sin and rebellion against God. This is why David cries out, 'Create in me a clean heart, O God' (Psalm 51:10). It is through God's transformative work that believers receive a new heart that enables them to acknowledge their sins and turn toward God for salvation. Thus, the awareness of our sinful state and recognition of our need for divine intervention underscores our need for a new heart, an essential element of regeneration.