4 You have laid down precepts
that are to be fully obeyed.
5 Oh, that my ways were steadfast
in obeying your decrees!
6 Then I would not be put to shame
when I consider all your commands. (Psalm 119 4-6 NIV)
Psalm 119 is one of my favorite Psalms. There is much to be mined in the words of this Psalm alone. But the important theme of this Palm is how it paints a picture of our faith life. Summed up well above as we consider the scripture (precepts) we have been given, our need for stedfast obedience so that as we consider God’s commands we will not be ashamed of our thoughts or actions.
Some would say that scripture is difficult to understand, contradictory and convoluted. And if we do not devote ourselves to deep study they can be. As we read, not just one scripture, but all of them we begin to see the intricate tapestry woven within the words.
Far too often we wan to pick and choose the scriptures we want to follow. Whole religions have been founded upon sections of scripture and not the Bible as a whole. There is a danger when we take this approach to following scripture.
For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. (Matthew 5:18)
