What brings you joy? There is no doubt that we are creatures of desire—we want things. Whether it is greater economic stability, the desire for deeper friendships, less loneliness, we all want something. Perhaps, in light of Ephesians 6, you want children who are more attentive to your words. Perhaps you want some time to simply get away from the rush of life. Regardless, we … [Read more...]
What God Told Me Today (Psalm 119:49–56)
God has some supernatural advice for you—truths to help you deal with your most formidable personal challenges. Do you know how to get to those truths? Remember your word to your servant, in which you have made me hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life. The insolent utterly deride me, but I do not turn away from your law. When I think of … [Read more...]
Impotent Works, Potent Grace (Psalm 119:41–48)
In the psalmist’s petition to experience God’s love, we find the true context for our prayers. And within this context we find the commitment of the Christian—as a result of this context. Only the experience of God’s love will lead to a true commitment to serve him. Let your steadfast love come to me, O LORD, your salvation according to your promise; then shall I have an … [Read more...]
The Way of Wisdom (Psalm 119:33–40)
Innate to every person’s core is the desire to be happy. Though there are many perceived ways to gain this happiness, there is only one way to truly achieve it—and that is through knowing God and doing what he commands. To do anything else is to be foolish, but to be wise is to do as his commandments instruct us to do. Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes, and I shall … [Read more...]
Hanging On for Dear Life (Psalm 119:25–32)
For the Christian, life can be deeply discouraging. Someone once said that discouragement is inevitable, but despair is a choice. I don’t recall who said that, but the writer of Psalm 119 certainly understood it. He spoke of his soul clinging to the dust (v. 25) and melting away for sorrow (v. 28). He asked not to be put to shame (v. 32). This is clearly a major thought in this … [Read more...]