Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes;
and I will keep 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.
Incline my heart to your testimonies,
and not to selfish gain
Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things;
and give me life in your ways.
Confirm to your servant your promise
that you may be feared.
Psalm 119:33-38
Teach me.
Give me.
Lead me.
Incline my heart.
Turn my eyes.
Confirm.
The source of each one of the above phrases is the LORD. In humility, the psalmist, King David, prays for the LORD’s help in all of these things. He knows his heart is naturally bent toward sin and the world. He recognizes that he requires the LORD’s instruction through his word. He acknowledges that the understanding needed to live a life of obedience had to come from the LORD. He knows he cannot make his own way but must be led by the LORD. Because he knows his heart will naturally lead him toward sin, he prays for the LORD to incline his heart toward the Word, thereby keeping him from the sin of covetousness. He asks for the LORD’s help in keeping his eyes focused on what is right, true, and beautiful, rather than that which is worthless. And lastly, he asks for the LORD’s reassurance of his promise which would draw David to worship.
These are wonderful verses to pray – not only in times of uncertainty or struggle but in all circumstances. We cannot do this in our own power. All of our strength is anchored in the grace of the LORD. To persevere through this life, we must continually seek him, seek his word, and seek his guidance. And we must take a posture of humility, just as King David did.
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