HOW DO YOU FEEL? (part-02)

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT GOD’S LAWS, COMMANDS AND PROMISES?

BIBLE PASSAGE:
I have taken an oath and confirmed it,
that I will follow your righteous laws.
(Psalms 119:106)

MEDITATION:
When people hear anything about God’s commands,
they usually react in one of two ways:
        they cringe when reminded of them,
    or
        they embrace them.

The Psalmist loved God so much that he embraced His laws
and commands. What caused him to react in this way?

He acknowledged the righteousness
of God, and the fairness of His laws.
    You are righteous, LORD,
    and your laws are right.
    (Psalms 119:137)

He knew God’s statutes could be trusted. If he obeyed
them, then he could expect the benefits of his obedience.
    The statutes you have laid down
    are righteous; they are fully trustworthy.
    (Psalms 119:138)

He learned to love God’s promises because
they had proven to be true in all circumstances.
    Your promises have been thoroughly
    tested, and your servant loves them.
    (Psalms 119:140)

He knew that God’s precepts were reliable, when people are not.
In all adverse circumstances, he knew that he could endure as
long as he remained focused on God’s instructions, and promises.
    Though I am lowly and despised,
    I do not forget your precepts.
    (Psalms 119:141)

In a ‘trust-lacking’ world, he knew that God’s laws could
be trusted as truth; not just for a day or so, but for all time.
    Your righteousness is
    everlasting and your law is true.
    (Psalms 119:142)

Whenever he was burdened with problems, he could find joy
in God’s commands. Focusing on God’s commands, instead
of his problems, was a delight for the Psalmist.
    Trouble and distress have come upon
    me, but your commands give me delight.
    (Psalms 119:143)

He knew that he could increase his understanding through
God’s commands and this would help him to live in the midst
of any trials and tribulations he faced, rather than becoming
withdrawn with feelings of loneliness. It kind of sounds like
the psalmist is saying that he can live with a new purpose,
doesn’t it?
    Your statutes are always righteous;
    give me understanding that I may live.
    (Psalms 119:144)

He loved how God’s precepts helped him to develop a right attitude
toward sin. Instead of embracing sin, or playing around with it, or
justifying his actions for giving in to it, he learned how to hate it,
and as a result, he was less susceptible to temptation.
    Because I love your commands more than gold,
    more than pure gold, and because I consider all
    your precepts right, I hate every wrong path.
    (Psalms 119:127-128)

ACTION:
Perhaps sin has been ‘owning’ you for way too long. Learn from the
psalmist how to embrace God’s laws, commands, and promises. They
exist for the benefit of those who follow the Lord, and contrary to what
some may think, they are not designed to make life boring, or restrictive.

Those who love and obey His precepts will find that life can be much
more fun, exciting, and enjoyable. In addition, when we are obeying
the instructions from God, we will discover that we have a new purpose
for living. Why? Because our focus has been changed and we have a new
concern for others, which strips away our selfishness.

Pray,
“Heavenly Father, thank You for providing the tools
for me to enjoy a happier life. Teach me Your laws
and show me the benefits of obeying them. Help me
to love Your precepts so I can develop a disdain for
sin and be less vulnerable to temptations. I pray that
the Holy Spirit will help me to transform to a life of
righteousness that I cannot achieve on my own. Help
me to embrace His presence in my life.”

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