Disciples Respect God's Commands
Matthew 5:17
Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.
~Jesus
When it comes to games, some people enjoy learning all the rules, not simply to play properly, but to use them to their advantage. Others may dislike rules, perceiving them as merely suggestions or even killjoys. They may choose to alter, ignore or even break rules. From Scrabble to sports to life itself you’ll find such approaches to rules.
Jesus was not a law-breaker nor merely a law-keeper, but rather a law-fulfiller. And he didn't merely fulfill the law in word only. He operated with the spirit of the law in mind also – something His enemies often lacked in their own “lawful” behavior. His Sermon on the Mount helps us capture the spirit of the law also. But Jesus didn't just talk the talk. He walked the walk – and encourages us to be such people as well.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, I pray that You would help me to value and respect the teachings, the laws and commands of Your Word the way that You did. I pray that I would seek not to evade them, nor merely to use them to my advantage in relationship to others, but to fulfill them. I want to do so to the glory of God the Father just like You did. Amen
Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God
An explanation of the connection between Psalm 119 and the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet was provided in a previous devotion.
Micro-Meditation Scripture
Psalm 119:129-136 (Peh, 17th letter)
פ
- Your statutes are wonderful;
therefore I obey them. - The unfolding of your words gives light;
it gives understanding to the simple. - I open my mouth and pant,
longing for your commands. - Turn to me and have mercy on me,
as you always do
to those who love your name. - Direct my footsteps according to
your word; let no sin rule over me. - Redeem me from human oppression,
that I may obey your precepts. - Make your face shine on your servant
and teach me your decrees. - Streams of tears flow from my eyes,
for your law is not obeyed.
Micro-Meditation Action
Read the verses of the Psalm two times. Focus on what you see differently on the second reading.
Mark any words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: Talk (or write in a journal) with God about the words that catch your attention. Ask Him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect a response.
Micro-Meditation
Pondering Point
The traditional sense of the Hebrew letter Peh relates to speech, drawn from its root meaning mouth. Note throughout words of speech for God and the psalmist.