Making Sense of Life

We continue our journey in this first week of a new season of learning in Psalm 119 which tells us so many helpful things about why it makes sense to study and learn from what God has written down for us. 

I have to roll my eyes and giggle a little when I read the words we will focus on today because I’ve done what they are saying so many times and sadly experienced the result. 

I lie in the dust; revive me by your word.  I told you my plans, and you answered. Now teach me your decrees.  Help me understand the meaning of your commandments, and I will meditate on your wonderful deeds. 

Psalm 119:25-27

Been there.  Done that.  Told God my plans rather than asking Him for His. How ridiculous we must sound.  After all we are telling our plans to the creator of the universe and of our lives as though we know better than Him, the one who alone knows the past, the present, and the future. How on earth does God have the grace to listen to this nonsense from us and actually respond to us? 

Clearly God was telling the writer of these words that they hadn’t gotten it right with the plans they were making and offered a wiser and safer set of instructions.

If we will listen today, God will speak words of correction to us, give us understanding about why His way is better, and even help us get over ourselves, which is one of the biggest obstacles before us. 

The next words the writer of this Psalm gives us are a wonderful prayer I know I need to put into practice today and every day because it is so easy to tell ourselves stupid things that run in opposition to God’s way.  Let’s pray these words ourselves.

Keep me from lying to myself; give me the privilege of knowing your instructions.  I have chosen to be faithful; I have determined to live by your regulations

Psalm 119:29-30

Loving God, Who were we to think we had any knowledge about what would make life work?  Our best plans got us to places we never want to be in again. 

We’re so grateful that You are willing to expand our understanding of life inside Your truth. Thank You for giving us trustworthy instructions that keep us on the path. 

Thank you for your patience with us as we learn to surrender our faulty plans in favour of Your reliable ones.  Give us ears to hear Your voice of encouragement as we journey together along the way.  Amen

So, let’s do today with God, working His plans for us and experiencing tons of joy and peace as we travel together with Him.