Today's Word of Encouragement

The Guidance of God's Word

May 13, 2020

THE GUIDANCE OF GOD’S WORD
Thursday, May 14, 2020

    Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path (Psalm 119:105).

    What’s the difference between taking a risks and acting on faith? Some people are risk takers, others are not. “You can't get anywhere in life without taking risks” some people say. “Progress means taking risks. You can’t steal second base with your foot still on first base” to put it in a sports perspective. On the other hand, Werner Herzog said, “I prefer to be alive, so I’m cautious about taking risks.” When you get down to it, it’s a big risk just getting out of bed each morning.
    King David made up his mind to trust in God’s Word as the guide in his life. He realized the value and necessity in such a commitment. Some say that’s risky, others say that’s faith. What do you say?
    In the ‘Nun’ (N) section of Psalm 119 (vv. 105-112), the psalmist speaks of the dangers he has faced in life - he is ‘exceedingly afflicted’ (anah: bowed down; humbled) by circumstances and by people, his ‘life is in his hands’ (he is always at risk in losing his life), his enemies are always threatening to capture him. Yet David chose to let God’s Word navigate him through the dangers.

    • I have promised to obey your Word (v. 106)
    • I will not disregard Your Word (v. 109)
    • I will not turn away from Your Word (v. 110)
    • I have set my heart on honoring Your Word (v. 112)

    When you take the ‘bird’s eye look’ at David’s life, you realize he made a number of serious mistakes when he acted on his own, but he still was a man of faith; he didn’t take risks - he repented, then followed the leading of God’s Word.
    Life is no less dangerous for the people of God in today’s world. Should we risk faith (which is an oxymoron) in these days of crisis, or should we confidently follow God’s Word in leading us through the hazards of our current situation? Each person must decide for him/herself.
    “Father, calm my anxious spirit and give me confidence in the truth of Your Word. Let it be a lamp to my feet and a light to my path so that I may walk with You as you lead me through these days of trouble. Amen.”

Pastor Martin

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