Psalm 119:59
When I think on your ways, I turn my feet to your testimonies; Psalm 119:59
This verse reminds me of one of my favorite verses found in the book of Proverbs.
…the heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.” — Proverbs 16:9 ESV
With every new journal I start, I write this proverb in the cover page as a reminder of the fact that as much as I set out to plan for myself, God is sovereign over each of my steps as I go forward in life.
“When I think on your ways,” The Psalmist is talking to God, making a statement that reminds himself and God that he is thinking of God and His ways often. He is affirming how obvious it is for him to think of God and His ways as an important part of his life.
“I turn my feet…” Not only does the Psalmist think about God and His ways, but these thoughts have a direct effect on which direction he goes in life. He is saying that his feet follow his thinking. He has discipled his feet to follow God’s ways.
“…to your testimonies;” It is comforting to see the Psalmist say, “to your testimonies.” He did not say “away from other things.” The Psalmist finds delight and freedom in turning his “feet to your testimonies.” He is happy to move in the direct of God’s good and perfect will.
How am I doing today? Am I still allowing God’s ways turn my feet to His testimonies? Or am I still living off the stagnant baptismal waters of 35+ years in the past?
A pastor friend of mind said his biggest disappointment or discouragement as a pastor was his parents’ loss of spiritual vitality. He said that they used to be active and involved in the local church and excited about their local church community. Today, they have a marriage of mutual existence and use their grandkids to distract them from pursuing the spiritual growth, vitality, and maturity that is needed in each of their individual lives.
What happened to their spiritual vitality? This verse provides a clue. They no longer take the time to sit in the comfortableness of thinking about God’s ways and turning their feet to His testimonies. They are tired, hurt, “been there, done that, got the T-shirt!” They are trying to live off yesterday’s manna. The lake house is more appealing than the local church body. Another road trip in the RV is more appealing than the care and concerns of their neighbors.
for my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters, and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water. — Jeremiah 2:13 ESV
My simple message today is to ask that you stop and evaluate. No judgement here. Please consider what God is calling you to and I pray that He will be faithful to move you in that direction. My prayer for you is that you will be faithful and obedient to His movement.
If you would like to learn more about God’s character and how to discern His will, please consider talking with a Burke Care team member. We are available to listen.
Father, guide my steps, direct my path. Your yoke is easy, and your burden is light. Bring me into the spacious place You have for me. Grow my passions for You. Create vitality in me where there was none. Amen!
Application Questions:
How often do I set my plan according to my agenda and not consider God’s plan?
Am I willing to give up good things in my life to take part in God’s redemptive plan for me and those around me?
Does God provide freedom through obedience or is He just a cosmic killjoy? And what does that say about me wanting to follow His will?
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