Our call to worship is Psalm 119:33-40.
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 things; 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.
This passage teaches us the value of following the path God has laid out for us. Our own plans often lead us astray but obeying the law of the Lord will always bring us joy. It may not be the immediate gratification the world would have us seek, however God wants us to be patient and find eternal happiness with Him.
This is how our initial failure occurred, when we listened to someone other than God. If we had remained faithful to God’s teaching, we would not have fallen into sin. Putting our own desires and judgement ahead of God’s puts us at risk.
The psalmist reminds us to avoid the trap of selfishness and the worthless things the world offers. When we choose these, we choose separation from God. “In your righteousness preserve my life” is more than just a request, it is the only way we can be saved.
Gracious God, You give us Your word as a teaching and a promise, that we might live for You and care for each other. Help us to be the faithful servants You intend, sharing Your love with everyone. Amen.