A young psalmist on keeping life’s paths pure
Daily Scripture
Psalm 119:4-11
4 God, you have ordered that your decrees
should be kept most carefully.
5 How I wish my ways were strong
when it comes to keeping your statutes!
6 Then I wouldn’t be ashamed
when I examine all your commandments.
7 I will give thanks to you with a heart that does right
as I learn your righteous rules.
8 I will keep your statutes.
Please don’t leave me all alone!
9 How can young people keep their paths pure?
By guarding them according to what you’ve said.
10 I have sought you with all my heart.
Don’t let me stray from any of your commandments!
11 I keep your word close, in my heart,
so that I won’t sin against you.
Daily Reflection & Prayer
At times we see Psalm 119 as just a novelty—”the longest Bible chapter” (it does have 176 verses). But it’s much more. A younger poet (verses 9-10) showed both joy and realism about a life lived God’s way. “The rules in the Old Testament were not merely random taboos or prohibitions designed to keep you from enjoying your life. They were given to help you live a truly human life…. the psalm teaches adhering to God’s rules is the way of blessing. Things go well in your life.” *
- This younger psalmist was serious about living a pure life. “I have sought you with all my heart” (verse 10). But that takes inner strength that may falter at times (verse 5), and it can be all too easy to stray (verse 10). When have you (whatever your age) struggled with issues like those? On the other hand, when has seeking God and God’s ways with all your heart made a positive difference in your life, instead of robbing you of joy or love?
- A bit later, the psalmist expressed determination to stick to the choice of living God’s way even if “influencers” made fun of it (Psalm 119:21-24). “Sometimes you have to live in light of the way you believe things will work out in the long run. These important people’s… behavior will reinforce the psalmist’s conviction that it is God’s declarations that are the best counselors.” ** Have you ever faced ridicule or hostility for choosing God’s ways? What helped you to live beyond it?
Prayer
Lord God, an old hymn says, “Beyond the sacred page, I seek you, Lord.” As I read my Bible it’s you I seek in its pages. Shine into my heart through my Bible, so that your kingdom’s love, joy and peace shine out of me. Amen.
GPS Insights
Lydia Kim
Lydia Kim serves as one of the pastors of Connection and Care at Resurrection Leawood. An avid believer that growing in faith pairs well with fellowship and food, she is always ready for recommendations on local restaurants and coffee shops.
I spent time with my sister and niece this weekend. While I was visiting, my niece, a senior in high school, had some friends over. Watching them hang out in the back yard reminded me of my time as a student in student ministries–hanging out with friends, going on retreats, and being surrounded by leaders who took the time to be in relationship with us.
The young Psalmist wrote about following God’s ways and at times that can be difficult. What I have found is that being in a community helps when life gets tough. A community of students, leaders, parents, extended family, and friends–a church that invests in one another, can also help us to stay on the right path and draw us closer to God.
After my niece’s friends left, we spent a few hours talking about life. She asked me some seriously tough questions about faith, God, and how to be a good friend. Talking with her made me realize how important these intergenerational relationships are, not just for her but also for me. I may not always understand the language my niece speaks, but spending time together, I believe, impacts us both in our journey of faith. My hope for her is that she chooses to make good choices and becomes a more deeply committed Christian. And I know this is possible because of people who invest in her and others.
We need one another–who might you invest in today?
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Scripture quotations are taken from The Common English Bible ©2011. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
References
* John Goldingay, Psalms for Everyone, Part 2: Psalms 73–150. Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2014, p. 145.
** Ibid.
