Psalms 119, Part 2

We are reading Psalms 119:45-96 today. I love how the author mentions meditating on God’s commandments. They ponder, they reflect on God’s Holy Word. And verse 61 stuck out to me today.

‘Evil people try to drag me into sin, but I am firmly anchored to your instructions.’
Psalms 119:61

When I was younger, I was being dragged into sin, and I would drag others along with me. I wasn’t anchored in God’s word. I was being tossed about like a ship without a rudder. We live in the country, and many of the roads don’t have painted lines and are narrow. Years ago, my wife and I were driving when a car came around the curve, flying toward us on our side of the road. Well, I did what any redneck would do, I waved — but I didn’t use all my fingers, the “bird” if you know what I mean. The same thing happened last week, but I didn’t wave; I kept my composure, thanks be to God. Not that I don’t sin now, but the Holy Spirit is transforming me. I’m making progress through the perfection of Christ; it might feel like baby steps, but hey, I’m moving forward.

I read something the other day, and the author said, “We live in a post-literate world now.” How sad is that? The reason we are dragged into sin is that we are Biblically illiterate. When we aren’t anchored in God’s word, sin will drag us down. We have to actively pursue a relationship with Christ through studying, meditating, pondering, and reflecting on Jesus, on God’s word; praying; worshiping; and being with friends who are also anchored in Christ.

‘My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me; Because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.’
Hosea 4:6

I believe we don’t ponder or meditate on God’s commandments as much as we should. What would the world look like if we meditated on the most important commandments? Before I shot off my mouth or acted compulsively, if I could only ask myself, “Am I loving my neighbor as myself?

To help us reflect, to ponder, let’s take some time each day to think about these questions: “In what ways can I show love to God and to others today?” or “How can I let God’s word guide my actions in challenging moments?” “Can we pray that the Holy Spirit steer our thoughts, words, and actions along the narrow road?” You might also want to meditate on Matthew 22:37-40, and consider how these verses can shape your responses and relationships throughout your week.

‘³⁷Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ ³⁸This is the first and greatest commandment. ³⁹A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ ⁴⁰The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.” ‘
Matthew 22:37-40

Dear Heavenly Father. Thank you for your word, your grace, your unfailing love. Lord, help us to love your Word, give us a hunger for you and your Word. Steer our thoughts, words, and actions. You are the Father of Lights, let your light shine through us, so we can shine for you. In the Holy Precious name of Jesus. Amen.