Devotional:Managing our Sin: Psalm 119

Recently I received a letter from my Primary Care Physician (PCP). The letter contained a report of my most recent results from my blood and urine tests. Most of the results were within normal ranges. However, my doctor stated that the results showed that my blood sugar was too high. I should increase the dosage of my diabetes medication. I should avoid eating foods high in carbohydrates and sugar. You see I am a diabetic. I have type II, Adult Onset Diabetes Mellitus. My pancreas does not produce enough insulin to control my blood sugar. Type II diabetes is best managed with appropriate medication, eating the right foods and getting exercise. Usually, I do all three, but due to some stressful situations in my life I had failed to eat properly and get enough exercise. The letter from the PCP alerted me to the fact that I needed to regain control of my blood sugar. Thinking about this I was reminded that we often allow our spiritual life to get out of control. Psalm 119 gives us good advice on how we can manage our spiritual life.

Psalm 119 is known as an Alphabetical psalm. The first eight verses of the psalm begin with the first Hebrew letter, Alpha. This continues through the twenty-two alphabets. The general subject of the psalm is the law of God considered as a rule for life. There are two verses in the psalm that stand out to me. First, “Your word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11, NASB). For me, this verse is like me taking my medication as prescribed by the doctor. God’s word tells us how we are to manage our life according to the word of God.

The second verse that stands out to me says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path” (v.105, NASB). This verse says that the word of God will remind me of the lifestyle that I should live. It tells me that I should be discriminate about the foods that I eat. Likewise, there are some things that appeal to the flesh that are not good for good spiritual health and my walk with Christ.

I am reminded that I must follow spiritual disciplines in my life. These include but not limited to prayer, bible reading, worship, and regular fellowship with other believers. The word of God reminds us to do all of these things so that we can have healthy spiritual lives.

Prayer: Thank God for His word that gives us understanding and wisdom for living. Amen