The Life You’ve Always Wanted.
Week #4: Meditation & Guidance.
Spiritual disciplines for ordinary people.
Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands. As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should! I will obey your decrees. Please don’t give up on me! How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. I have tried hard to find you— don’t let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees. I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us. I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word. Be good to your servant, that I may live and obey your word. Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instructions… I will meditate on your decrees. Your laws please me; they give me wise advice… Oh, how I love your instructions! I think about them all day long. Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are my constant guide… How sweet your words taste to me; they are sweeter than honey. Your commandments give me understanding; no wonder I hate every false way of life. Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path… Your laws are my treasure; they are my heart’s delight. I am determined to keep your decrees to the very end. I hate those with divided loyalties, but I love your instructions. You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope. Get out of my life, you evil-minded people, for I intend to obey the commands of my God. Lord, sustain me as you promised, that I may live! Do not let my hope be crushed. Sustain me, and I will be rescued; then I will meditate continually on your decrees… Your laws are perfect and completely trustworthy… Your promises have been thoroughly tested; that is why I love them so much... As pressure and stress bear down on me, I find joy in your commands. Your laws are always right; help me to understand them so I may live.
Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Psalm 119
Romans 12:2
John Ortberg writes, “God’s purpose in guidance is not to get us to perform the right actions. His purpose is to help us become the right kind of people… God guides us in ways that are consistent with Scripture and consistent with the person he has created each of us to be.”
Why is it important for us to remember these principles when seeking God’s guidance?
Has there been a time in your life when you felt that God was guiding you through Scripture. How did you know it was God? What was the outcome? Share your stories.
Pray for one another.
Take time to pray together (in pairs or small groups) for each other, in response to the above.
