Love the Precepts
Disclaimer: When I use the word “law” in this post I am not referring to the literal Law of Moses, but rather the more loosely defined Laws of God. That is why I, like the Psalmist, interchange other words such as precepts, decrees, and statutes; to show that we don’t need to get hung up on theology about being free from the “law” but rather that there are principles and commands from God that never fail.
I was reading Psalm 119 the other day; for the first time in forever. I am pretty sure it’s the longest Psalm. Could have been its own book I’m sure.
Anyway, the whole thing is pretty much a rant about how the Psalmist loves God’s laws, precepts, statues, and decrees. This guy REALLY likes God’s ways.
I have to admit that I started feeling a little guilty. A thought came into my mind, “Do I love God’s decrees?” Then I quickly realized that, of course, I do. I just love some more than others…
I have often felt a similar feeling for some of God’s laws as I have for the speed limit. It’s as if I know why the law exists, it makes sense. But I still find myself resisting it and maybe even wishing it didn’t exist.
Then I am struck with the word’s of the Psalmist in 119 who loves ALL God’s laws, decrees, precepts…
And it hits me… I need to come to a place where all of God’s laws, not just the ones that suit me and my culture, are adored and appreciated. As I sift through the myriad laws and precepts of God I start to realize there is so much benefit from even the most mundane.
Take for example the precept of loving your neighbor as yourself; sometimes this can seem like a burden. But when you love it and live it you start to reap rewards of friendship, fulfillment, and loyalty, you begin to appreciate it.
For what laws, precepts, or decrees of God have you lost appreciation?
How can you get to a place where all of God’s laws, precepts, and decrees are adored, like the Psalmist adores them?
How is it possible to stay in that place?
