Living in the Spirit

September 7, 2023

Scripture Reading: Psalm 119:33-40
Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes,
   and I will observe it to the end.
Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
   and observe it with my whole heart.
Lead me in the path of your commandments,
   for I delight in it.
Turn my heart to your decrees,
   and not to selfish gain.
Turn my eyes from looking at vanities;
   give me life in your ways.
Confirm to your servant your promise,
   which is for those who fear you.
Turn away the disgrace that I dread,
   for your ordinances are good.
See, I have longed for your precepts;
   in your righteousness give me life.

In recent years, I have seen Jesus’s teachings as commentary, exploring the meaning of parts of the Hebrew Bible, like the Ten Commandments. Read the Sermon on the Mount, Mathew 5-7, and you will see that Jesus broadens the depth of some of those Commandments or other teachings. The commandments are not just a check-off list to make good grades, they describe a way of being designed to unite all people in an abundant life ruled by love.

Prayer: Lord, open our hearts as well as our minds to living your way of being. Amen.

All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights are reserved.