Tuesday 28th January
Read Psalm 119:137-144
“Tsadhe
137 You are righteous, Lord,
and your laws are right.
138 The statutes you have laid down are righteous;
they are fully trustworthy.
139 My zeal wears me out,
for my enemies ignore your words.
140 Your promises have been thoroughly tested,
and your servant loves them.
141 Though I am lowly and despised,
I do not forget your precepts.
142 Your righteousness is everlasting
and your law is true.
143 Trouble and distress have come upon me,
but your commands give me delight.
144 Your statutes are always righteous;
give me understanding that I may live.” (NIVUK)
There is joy in following your travel instructions, they are always accurate, fitted to my need v137-144.
From disobedience to a recognition of God’s righteousness, a righteousness expressed in God’s laws and statutes that the psalmist knows are to be trusted. He then indicates to the Lord, I am tired of living in a world where there is no encouragement as I try and follow your word, I know that all that you ask, your directions, have been thoroughly tested and proven to be good but it’s still a struggle. Because I know your words are true, I do love them; well, most of the time, but without support (particularly when I am despised for trusting those words) I am struggling big-time. However, I don’t forget because the reality is that your righteousness is forever, you are completely consistent, and your words are always true; I try and remember this when I am ‘snowed under’ with difficulties and trauma. It prompts the question of why we forget – just possibly it is dependent on how well we know and have tested the truth! The psalmist then comments, somehow your words bring me delight even in these situations which simply confirms you are righteous and never change (promises tested). As we reflect on these ideas it is good to ask God for understanding and the ability to apply His words so our journey can be what He intended.
Geoff Hinch
