Scripture: Psalm 119:33-40

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Teach me, Lord, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end.

Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart.

Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight.

Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain.

Turn my eyes away from worthless thing; preserve my life according to your word.

Fulfill your promise to your servant, so that you may be feared.

Take away the disgrace I dread, for your laws are good.

How I long for your precepts! In your righteousness preserve my life.

 

Observation:

You can really see the heart of the author here.  He keeps asking God for understanding, to teach him, to turn his heart, to shield his eyes, all because he desires to follow God blamelessly. His motivation seems very selfless. He really desires to do what is right, and it seems he recognizes there are things in his life that are not right. Are my requests more often selfless or selfish? Are my motives always pure?

 

Application:

I love the way each verse is a small prayer on its own. There is almost a bit of confession within each verse, and asking God for help. This kind of model of prayer really keeps your motives pure. Any selfish motives I would have would very clearly be exposed.  Can I try and pray with the will of God in mind, rather than my own desires?

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Prayer:

Lord, turn my eyes from worthless things. Things that distract me from seeking you and understanding your ways. I want to find delight in all your commands, help me keep my path straight and true. God, your ways are good, help me learn so that I may obey with all my heart. Thank you Jesus! Amen