Psalm 119 – Verses 33-37 (NLT)
Teach me, Lord, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end. Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight. Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain.
We know as Christians that our daily lives are meant to reflect the light of Christ in us, but like the Apostle Paul said. “I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. But if I do what I don’t want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.” I can definitely say the same.
The best thing we can do is copy the psalmist and ask God to teach us, to keep to the right path, and to ask Him for wisdom and understanding, and to be obedient to God’s commands. The Psalmist tells us that this is where our true happiness is to be found, not in pursuing possessions and wealth. How many times have we heard wealthy or well-known figures report that fame and fortune isn’t everything we think it will be.
A fully contented life comes from living the way that God intended us to. He’s even given us an instruction manual in the Bible, to help us. We don’t need any other “self-help” books. The Psalmist knew that he was far from perfect, and he would sometimes let God down, just as Paul did. But he also knew that he could always ask God for both forgiveness and help. And the great thing is, so can we!
Dear Lord,
Thank You that Your plans and laws are good. Help me to follow Your instructions, and to not get caught up in pursuing wealth and possessions. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.