BECOMING UNSHAKEABLE IN AN UNSTABLE WORLD

BIBLE PASSAGE:
Whoever does these things will never be shaken. 
(Psalm 15:5b)

MEDITATION:
How great would it be to never be shaken?
When I think about ‘being shaken’, 
I think about being devastated by some event.
If that is true, then when the Psalmist says we will never be shaken, 
he means that when adverse circumstances happen, 
we will be able to cope with and endure them.
By no stretch of the imagination does that mean we will enjoy them, but I 
think it does mean that we will be given a confident hope of surviving them.

The Psalmist says that those who do ‘these things’ will never be shaken.
What things is he talking about?
He lists some specifics, but overall he is talking about 
those who have developed a mindset similar to the Lord’s.
In your relationships with one another, 
have the same mindset as Christ Jesus. (Philippians 2:5)

In his list, he includes things like righteousness, truthfulness, 
and trustworthiness.
The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous,
who speaks the truth from their heart; (Psalm 15:2) 

He also includes treating others with respect (as Jesus would).
Rather than engaging in harmful conversations about others, 
we should look for the goodness in them. 
When others treat us badly, 
we should not waste time and energy trying to get revenge.
whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor,
and casts no slur on others; (Psalm 15:3)

He tells us that we should appreciate those who love the Lord 
and avoid those who are living a life contrary to God’s expectations.
who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the LORD; (Psalm 15:4a)
It makes sense, doesn’t it? 
We tend to become similar to the company we keep.

He is not implying that we should not pray 
for those living a life consumed in sin, nor does he mean 
that we should not look for opportunities to witness to them.
Treating others with respect includes 
praying for them when they are going in the wrong direction.

In the second part of verse four, 
he reminds us that we should not make superficial promises.
who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind; 
(Psalm 15:4b)

Some people are notorious for making promises that cast a favorable light 
on themselves, but there is nothing substantial in their promises.
Whenever it is time to fulfill their promises, 
they have plenty of convenient excuses.

It doesn’t take long for others to realize when people have a habit 
of making empty promises, and to realize they cannot be trusted.
Making unfulfilled promises is more discouraging to others 
than never making a promise in the first place.

Lastly, the Psalmist tells us to have concern for others, 
and to never compromise our faith by taking advantage of the innocent.
who lends money to the poor without interest;
who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. (Psalm 15:5a)

ACTION:
If you believe God’s Word is true, then put into practice what you 
have heard from the Psalmist if you want to avoid being ‘shaken’. 
In order to follow his words of advice, 
you will need to replace your selfishness with selflessness.
That may not be easy for some, but with God all things are possible. 

Pray,
“Heavenly Father, I believe Your Word is true and I want to live a 
life that is unshakable. Help me to realize that it will require me to 
change my habits and attitudes. Show me the areas where I am weak 
and give me strength and confidence that I can change the things I 
need to change. Forgive me if I am guilty of gossiping or putting others 
down. Teach me to look for ways of encouraging and lifting the spirits 
of others. Thank You for all of Your wonderful promises.”

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