A Word from Psalm 119

What comes to mind when you think about “obedience”? How about “decrees,” and “laws,” and “commands”? When you hear those words, do you think about freedom and joy? Or do you get a sense of limitation and drudgery?

I ask these questions, because today’s word comes from Psalm 119, which—as you might be aware—is not only the longest psalm in the Bible, but which is also a celebration of God’s law. Of course, in a lot of our Christian teaching, we’re told that we live by grace! And so, we’re no longer “under the law.” And while that’s true in it’s own way, that doesn’t mean that we’re set free from obedience – but that we’re set free for obedience to the heart of God’s law, which is revealed in Jesus, and which is summed up in his command to love God and to love each other as he has loved us.

And so, with that love in mind, I wonder if we could rejoice today at the thought of obedience to God’s decrees, and laws, and commands. And if we can, perhaps our prayer would sound like this:

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. (119:33-35)

May you find delight today in a God who loves you enough to tell you how to live a life that honors Him. Amen.