Your Identity in Christ
In Christ, I seek to live by the Spirit and keep in step with the Spirit, desiring to be more like Jesus: Not a law breaker, nor merely a law keeper, but a law fulfiller – in spirit and in truth.
Pondering Point
People often get put into one of two broad categories when it comes to how rules are approached. There are ‘black-and-white’ styles and ‘shades of grey’ types. Both can be strengths and weaknesses given different environments. It is interesting to note that in relating to the Law, the Apostle Paul – once a fierce proponent of the law’s virtue – encourages fellow disciples that “you are not under the law” but rather grace (Romans 6:14) and that “you are not under the law” but led by the Spirit (Galatians 5:18). With the law and its purposes now fulfilled by Jesus, we are taught to live by and under the Spirit.
Prayer
Spirit of God, thank You for Your law of life (Romans 8:2) that sets me free from sin and death. Teach me how to hear You, follow You, and keep in step with You. Teach me to yield to You and to trust Your guidance, Your leadership, Your wisdom and Your ways. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 119:129-136
- 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.
Read the versus of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Teaching or Command of God
Amos 5:14a
Seek good, not evil, that you may live…
The Promise
Amos 5:14b
…then the Lord God Almighty will be with you, just as you say he is.
Pondering Point
How would you characterize the attitude of the writer toward God based on these words of Psalm 119? And… how would you describe your attitude toward God?