The Word of God is the key to a purpose-filled life. The message of Scripture reveals the essentials for being all that we can be as we fulfill God's perfect and gracious plan for our lives. The first three verses of Psalm 1, for example, gives a clear recipe for gaining the maximum effectiveness from your life this year.
"Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with scoffers" (Psalm 1:1). There is a progression from listening to advice, to standing around with, and to finally joining in with those who contradict God's ways. It is very easy for us to progress from being an observing bystander to an active participant. Be careful this year about what you listen to and watch. Be careful that you do not head down the trail of observing what's wrong and eventually becoming what's wrong. Joy is promised to those who resist the einticement of the world.
"But they delight in doing everything the Lord wants; day and night they think about his law," (Psalm 1:2). In order to delight in what the Lord wants--we must first know what the Lord wants. Make it a priority in 2007 to spend time "thinking about His law". I use The New Living Translation of the "One Year Bible" for my daily Bible reading and have it found it to be an easy way to immerse myself in the Word of God. As you read the text for the day--ask yourself what the text is saying to you personally. Is there a command to obey? Is there a revelation about who God is?
"They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season without fail. Their leaves never wither, and in all they do, they prosper" (Psalm 1:3). What is the result of being a person who spends time in the Word of God? You will be fruitful! You will prosper!
No comments:
Post a Comment