Proverbs 16:9 and Psalm 37: 5-6

Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, and the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

These words do not say our journey will be filled with sunshine and happiness, or that our ways and beliefs will be readily accepted by those around us as our life evolves into a series of joyous events.

What these verses do communicate, is that when we truly commit to living as the Lord commands, our righteousness (being “in the right” in relation to God) will be what is most important, and what makes us stand out among men in the eyes of God.

“Commit your way…” “Trust in Him…” 

This “shining” may never look or feel like a bright, beautiful experience to us because of the earthly burdens we bear. We might never reap the benefits of our labors directly. The one who matters most however, will be well aware of our heart’s intentions and the steps we have taken to follow HIS course. To live our lives daily, for His glory. As we were reminded last Sunday:

“The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control.” Galatians 5:22-23

amen

Read/listen to Proverbs 16:9

Read/listen to Psalm 37:5-6

Walk in the Light - 1 John 2:1-14

"I am not writing you a new command but an old one, which you have had since the beginning. This old command is the message you have heard. Yet I am writing you a new command; its truth is seen in him and in you, because the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining." (1 John 2:7-8)

A few months ago I brought my rings in to a jeweler to have them repaired.  These were my wedding rings, so I had been wearing them daily for over 40 years.  When I picked them up I was astounded at their appearance.  I always loved them and thought they look good, but the rings I placed on my finger that day were dazzling. 

The jeweler had cleaned and polished them, removing the dingy, scratched surface to reveal shining golden bands that glistened in the sunlight. I can easily parallel this with how I feel now that the brilliant light of Jesus has invaded my life.  There was so much dirt and debris cluttering my life that it was difficult to see past the darkness.  Once Jesus became a focus for me, my surroundings became brighter, my outlook took on a new glow; and I no longer stumbled around in the dark.

Just as buffing my rings gave them new life, polishing my relationship with Jesus has given me new life and walking in step with Jesus keeps me out of darkness.     

Read the 1 John 2:1-14 text for today here.