Psalm 119:29
Put false ways far from me and graciouly teach me your law! Psalm 119:29
This morning two things collided. One was an off-hand movie comment about a man’s “sad-sack, loser sob-story” and the other was Romans 12:3 in the NIV translation about humble service in the body of Christ.
For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. Romans 12:3 NIV
Merging the two together had me pondering…
For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of your sad-sack, loser sob-story, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you.
This latter version spoke to something deep inside me that is not pretty.
This odd combination of words illustrates my own prideful heart filled with self-pity. My childish attitude still carries a chip on my shoulder and is always ready to throw the first punch. I am comfortable with the former verse because I “Do not think of myself more highly than I ought.” My problem is I think of myself too much and it is often in the form of self-pity.
This is an example of how, in my flesh, I do not “put false ways far from me.” This is another example of how I need God to “graciously teach me your law!” My life as a believer has been unlearning what I learned prior to the effectual call of the Gospel hitting my heart. There are so many “false ways” that need to be unlearned. Father, graciously teach me!
In session application questions:
What are “false ways” that still need to be unlearned?
Where have you seen God “graciously teach” your truth?
What are the consequences that still affect you today due to “false ways” from your past?
Outside session homework:
Set aside time this week or next to pray for God to show you things that you still need to unlearn.
Journal or talk with a safe friend about what God revealed to you during your time of prayer.
Father, I know I think about myself more than I should. I when that my self-talk does not always line up with what you say about me. I know that my unbelief shows up more than I care to confess. Father, make me come to you as a needy child more. Graciously teach me your ways. Continue to change me from the inside out. For your glory and my good! Amen
If you would like to know more about how God reveals Himself through His Word. And if you want to continue to learn more about the process of confession and repentance, Burke Care would love to be part of that process. Reach out today to get the Gospel care you are looking for.
