Monday, October 22, 2018

OT: The Book of Psalms, Psalm 26

Psalm 26:1-12

12:1 David sought freedom, spiritual, physically, and emotional freedom in his life; he did so through his faith, and righteous life.  He chose to trust, and firmly, wholly, without any deviation. 

12:2-5 He asked God to examine him, to prove him, to try him as the righteous person he endeavored to be. David wanted to be genuine, if there was a place that needed correction within him, he asked God to correct it. A bold and brave request, because applying God's instruction to our life requires steadfast effort, self-awareness and long term commitment. 

12:6-7 David vowed to be clean, honest and sincere and with good intentions, as he approached God in life and spirit.  David's mission was to tell everyone, anyone, of his gratitude toward the God who had done wondrous works in his life.

12:8 David loved God's presence within him and his life, he loved being in the kingdom. From within the dwelling of the Lord we receive a peace unknown to the secular world. We are loved beyond the bounds we believe we deserve. 

12:9-10 He asked for separation from sin and violence and deception. He had learned a new way of life, the philosophy of God, and he wanted to adhere to it, unmarred by the fear, anxiety, and grime caused by evil and selfishness and mistrust. 

12:11-12 David trusted God to protect him and separate him from what might harm him, but for his own part, David promised to put in devoted effort as well. He promised walk in integrity, to live with peace and kindness and active faith. Knowing he would be flawed, he asked God to be merciful with him on his journey. Blessed are we that God chooses mercy and distributes it widely, abundantly!