Psalm 119: 33-40 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 119: 33-40 on biblegateway.com
Verse 33Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end.
Verse 34Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.
Verse 35Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it.
Verse 36Turn my heart to your decrees, and not to selfish gain.
Verse 37Turn my eyes from looking at vanities; give me life in your ways.
Verse 38Confirm to your servant your promise, which is for those who fear you.
Verse 39Turn away the disgrace that I dread, for your ordinances are good.
Verse 40See, I have longed for your precepts; in your righteousness give me life.
Devotion
You seldom hear of a love for the Law or God’s commandments and statutes in a Lutheran Church. My confirmation verse of Ephesians 2:8 sticks out in my mind, “For by grace you have been saved through faith.” But, while salvation by grace is free, discipleship costs. Jesus also said, 17“Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. 18For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one title will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. ” (Matthew 5:17-18) Following Christ means fulfilling the Law by following in our Master’s footsteps. The intent behind God’s commandments is that we might have life, and we would be foolish to ignore them. If we delight in God’s Law, as the Psalmist, we will find ourselves enlivened.
Prayer
Lord, incline our hearts toward your decrees. Amen.