Day 171

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Shout with Joy Before the Lord!

Scripture

June 19—Psalms 98-103: A Blameless Life, Heart and Walk

Observation

In today's section you'll discover songs of affection and affliction: "Sing a new song to the Lord" (98), "Jehovah is King" (99), "Shout with joy before the Lord" (100), "I will sing about your lovingkindness, Lord" (101), "Lord hear my prayer" (102), "I bless the holy name of God" (103).

Application

Knowing what to do is understanding. (Do you have understanding?)
Doing what you know is wisdom. (Are you wise?)
Teaching what you do is prudence. (Are you prudent?)

David knew from reading the Old Testament law that holiness was to be the hallmark of his administration. Why? Because the character of David's God radiated mercy and justice. But it wasn't enough to know that truth. David had to search for practical ways to implement that truth in his daily decisions as king. That's what Psalm 101 is all about! David wanted each habit and activity, each friend and employee to reflect the focus of his life—the holiness and purity of God.

Is that the goal of your Christian life as well? Blameless behavior, a blameless heart, a blameless walk with God (v. 2, 6)? Does your commitment to holiness filter down to affect your reading habits, TV viewing, choice of friends, integrity on the job, selection of leisure time activities?

Holiness in personal and professional life was not a one-time decision for David but a daily pursuit. "My daily task will be to ferret out criminals and free the city of God from their grip" (v. 8). As one commentator has described it, David nurtured a "king's concern for a clean administration, honest from the top down." What is one way in which you can build on his godly example today so that wholeness and holiness characterize your walk with God as well? How about writing a short note to your congressman, governor or mayor enclosing a copy of Psalm 101 as a statement of your commitment to godliness in government.

Prayer

Oh Almighty God! According to your Word, holiness of heart and life satisfy you. Cleanse us from all unrighteousness for your glory for we know holiness is dedicating ourselves wholly to you and your Word!  In Jesus name! Amen!

A World of Wholeness and Holiness!



© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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