July 13: Hidden Commandments?
I am a stranger in the earth; Do not hide Your commandments from me. My soul breaks with longing for Your judgements at all times. Psalm 119:19-20
Recognition of the facts of his own sin freed David’s mind of deceptions. The decision to leave his sinful ways behind distinguished him as a stranger to the ways of the world. Before, he had entered into a danger zone which led him into another—a pattern with no end in sight! Looking around, he realized that veering off of the path of righteousness casts a pallor over everything. A moment of unvarnished truth took hold of David—known as the man after God’s own heart—and he did the right thing by returning humbly and wholeheartedly to his God.
The realization of the temporary nature of this life on earth is a pivotal point. Things and people which we have built our life upon can be suddenly taken away. Instability in economics, politics, and personal relationships point to the transitory and temporary nature of the earth in its fallen condition. James made a concise statement about our life here:
Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. James 4:14
There are many different reactions to this truth. The pursuit of pleasure and entertainment may make its way to the top of the list of priorities. Others will dive into their work without so much as a pause to question how much permanent value all this work will achieve. There is always the mind-dulling tactic of alcohol and drug use. So many seek refuge in a combination of all of these and more, creating a sort of fantasy world.
But David’s action is the correct response! Looking beneath the temporary and transient, he settled into the truth that all of life is governed by the laws of God. Like Yahweh Himself, they are unchanging. David came to realize that he could build a joyful life of stability upon Him, filled with hope for the eternal future.
One of the greatest evidences of his success is the historical fact that three thousand years later, people all around the world treasure the Psalms of David. In them they find guidance, comfort, and wisdom. Jesus quoted the Psalms often. David’s words show him to be a New Covenant believer: one upon whose heart is written the law of God.
How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart I have sought You; Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments! Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You. Psalm 119:9-11