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Living light daily devotions
The impossible dream?
How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. Psalm 119:9
The story is told of the man praying: "Dear Lord, I have sought to live faithfully for You today. I haven't lied or cheated or said anything I shouldn't. I haven't let you or your people down, I have sought to do what is right. But I am getting up now, so please be with me the rest of the day! Amen."
We smile because we are sceptical that anyone could be that good and are relieved that this guy is just like us. Today's verse seems archaic. Who would be arrogant enough to claim that purity was an attainable or worthwhile goal?
This verse is part of the longest Psalm with each verse including a reference to God's Word and each section of verses starting with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The Psalmist believed that the Word of God can guide the young man (and woman) into godly living. The New Testament is no less demanding in its direction. Jesus tells his disciples to 'be perfect as your heavenly father is perfect.'
But before you get totally discouraged, remember that Jesus kept the law for us. The law that condemns becomes precious to us as we trust in Christ and are then encouraged by Him to live out its principles in the power of God's Spirit within. Pure living is possible after all.
Dear Lord, in my best moments I want to live a godly life. Work within me what is pleasing to You. Amen.
The impossible dream?
How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. Psalm 119:9
The story is told of the man praying: "Dear Lord, I have sought to live faithfully for You today. I haven't lied or cheated or said anything I shouldn't. I haven't let you or your people down, I have sought to do what is right. But I am getting up now, so please be with me the rest of the day! Amen."
We smile because we are sceptical that anyone could be that good and are relieved that this guy is just like us. Today's verse seems archaic. Who would be arrogant enough to claim that purity was an attainable or worthwhile goal?
This verse is part of the longest Psalm with each verse including a reference to God's Word and each section of verses starting with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The Psalmist believed that the Word of God can guide the young man (and woman) into godly living. The New Testament is no less demanding in its direction. Jesus tells his disciples to 'be perfect as your heavenly father is perfect.'
But before you get totally discouraged, remember that Jesus kept the law for us. The law that condemns becomes precious to us as we trust in Christ and are then encouraged by Him to live out its principles in the power of God's Spirit within. Pure living is possible after all.
Dear Lord, in my best moments I want to live a godly life. Work within me what is pleasing to You. Amen.
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