Thoughts for the Day

Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes,
and I will observe it to the end.
Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
and observe it with my whole heart.
Lead me in the path of your commandments,
for I delight in it.
Turn my heart to your decrees,
and not to selfish gain.
Turn my eyes from looking at vanities;
give me life in your ways.
Confirm to your servant your promise,
which is for those who fear you.
Turn away the disgrace that I dread,
for your ordinances are good.
See, I have longed for your precepts;
in your righteousness give me life.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

Psalm 119, the 'Prince of Psalms' is a very long psalm, and today we look at just a few verses. The psalmist in these verses is pleading with the Lord to instruct, guide, and give him strength to walk in the ways of God’s commands. Like a child learning to read he knows he needs help if he is to understand what he is reading. The request for understanding is important, for a child who trusts that their teacher is able to help them is always likely to continue learning.

Similarly the Christian who knows their need for God’s wisdom show their desire to not only know God’s law but also to apply it in everyday life. But the trouble is human wisdom and our own desires get in the way again and again. The psalmist cries "Turn my eyes from looking at vanities" - should we spend our money on that latest bit of bling whether it's a hand-bag, a golf club, or a bottle of wine, when we could drop the money into a charity box and help someone who is desperate? Human wisdom says "I've got the money, and I can afford to treat myself", but the wisdom of our Lord Jesus says we are to "Strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given ... as well". (Matthew 6.33)

The little phrase "Give me life in your ways" is important. If we want God's help; if we want Him to guide us; then we need to ask ourselves (and God) "If I continue with this action, am I walking in your way?"

Heavenly Father,
help me to walk in Your way,
and to seek the things that are worthy of You.
Turn my eyes from selfish desires,
and from actions that demean my status
as one of Your children.
Help me to stay faithful to my promise
to be true to my word this day.
Amen.