DELIGHTING IN DIVINE DECREES
Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.
Psalm 1:1-3 (NLT)
What do you delight in? Maybe it's a peaceful day on the lake or the golf course. Maybe it's a party full of life and loved ones. Perhaps great food, long walks on the beach, or just a good book. We all have things that we take special pleasure in. But would you say that you delight in God's Word?
I'm thankful for the Bible; truly, I am. But if I'm honest, I don't know that my relationship with it has consistently reached delight. There have been moments, yes, and I desire that there would be more. But I know I've not prioritized it the way I always should. And like anything, without intentionality and priority being placed on it, the depth and delight can fade.
The great news is that we can have a fresh start right now!
And when we do come to a place of delighting in the Word, the results are clear. According to the passage above, first we will see our attitudes and actions change. We'll no longer join in with or listen to those intentionally out of step with the Word. We will instead be like trees planted along the riverbank. Our roots will be firm and secure, drawing life and sustenance from God's Word.
So today, if you're tired, weary, or perhaps hanging on by a thread, consider your roots. Are you drawing nourishment from the Source of all life, Jesus? Or are you looking to be filled by the counterfeit offerings of this world? Take a step back. Take stock. Then, take time to be with God in His Word.
APPLICATION: Ask yourself: where are my roots? Consider the parable of the soils, found in Luke 13:1-23. Consider also the Words of Jesus on foundation, found in Matthew 7:24-27.
PRAYER: God, help me to build my life on You and Your Word. May I be firmly rooted in You that I might withstand the storms of this life. Bless me and help me as I seek to grow closer with You each day. In Jesus' name, amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?