Wednesday, January 23, 2008

even when it hurts

15. Psalm 15

Our society these days seems to have a difficult time keeping its word. Nowhere is it more evident than in the arena of politics. It seems like every candidate changes his or her mind on a regular basis not based on conviction, but on what is most likely to win more votes. Along with that is the insistence that they have not changed. I think it would be refreshing to have a candidate who could admit that they have changed their mind, that they see things differently, and can admit when they have made a mistake.

But before we go too far in condemning politicians we should do a little self-evaluation. Do we ever go back on our word? Am I guilty of telling my girls that I will be home to tuck them in and then allow something else to preempt that promise? Do I always fulfill my oath to Bonnie to love, cherish and keep her as long as we both shall live? Am I guilty of breaking my word to God when I choose to disobey Him? I guess before I ride into town on my high-horse I should consider where I need to get down from that horse and onto my knees and in humility ask God to forgive me where I have broken my promises to Him, to my family, and to others.

Lord, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He who keeps his oath even when it hurts. Psalm 15:1&4b

3 comments:

Tor said...

Psalm 15 makes me think of the 10 commandments.
Do we not strive to make ourselves do what is written in Psalm 15? For what we do with our heart (spirit) is much more important than what we do with our brian on making decisions. Our temptation in the brain (as Christians) is what makes us walk down the wrong path.

TJ said...

To me the worst part is when we go back on what we tell God we'll do- when we don't do what we know we should- it's basically saying to Him, "I don't really believe you're there, God," because I think I can get away with this without You knowing, I don't really think You're standing right next to me, seeing what I do.

secondjohnvs12 said...

Right on guys. I completely agree. I know we are human and we make mistakes, but if we really, really believed in God would we do the things we do? I actually did a couple posts last February about this topic. (losing sight of God part 1 & 2) Mostly just thoughts about the idea of not living out the reality of who God is in our lives, or how if we did live that way it would dramatically change our lives.