Scripture Reading(s)
Psalm 119:1-8
119:1 Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD.
119:2 Happy are those who keep his decrees, who seek him with their whole heart,
119:3 who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways.
119:4 You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently.
119:5 O that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes!
119:6 Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
119:7 I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous ordinances.
119:8 I will observe your statutes; do not utterly forsake me.
Reflections
God’s commandments are not there to put a strain or limit on us. In fact they are put in place to allow for us to experience ultimate freedom, satisfaction and delight in Him. Those who seek after God’s commands for their lives experience the blessing of a joyful and fruitful life. This Psalm paints a picture that illustrates what it means to truly seek a deeper and fuller relationship with God.
These passages can also serve as a prayer that we can use to ask God to give us direction on how to live fully for Him. Each day we are faced with new challenges, temptations and things that can cause us to stumble in our walk with God. We have to actively choose to seek God’s hand in helping us pursue living righteous lives.
We all stumble and fall into sin. Yet if we respond with a heart that seeks forgiveness and grace, God will actively continue to lead and guide us back to Him.
In yesterday’s Bible passage we read from Deuteronomy 30, where Moses delivered a sobering message to the Israelites about obedience to the Lord. The psalmist who wrote Psalm 119 was aware and reaffirming that obedience to the commands of God results in blessing. It results in abundance, life, and contentment.
There is great reward in living a life that is just and follows the Lord closely. Let us not get caught up in serving our own desires and our own cravings. As it was rightly pointed out by Jesus;
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (Matthew 6:33)
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