Intro: When was the last time you had another person lie about something that involved you? Recently, a friend of mine was in a car accident; another driver ran a red light and totaled my friend’s vehicle. The only witness left the scene; obviously afraid to get involved. The driver and passengers in the other car lied to the police about what happened. The dispute is still being investigated. I was saddened when I heard about the situation, but I pray for the God of Justice to rule by bringing forth the Truth in spite of the lack of moral character demonstrated by the guilty party. “People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will be exposed” (Pro 10:9).
I love this psalm of David and needed to be reminded of it, today. The whole psalm is set up as a question and answer session about the things that David has learn are important to God regarding moral character. As believers, we are to demonstrate righteousness, so we cannot get our character guidelines for living from an earthly society.
The Word of God reveals the way God expects his sons and daughters to live among our friends and neighbors if we want to abide or dwell in His presence. In fact, this psalm of David gives ten standards for us to consider when we are examining our lives. They alternate highlighting positive and negative character traits. We must adhere to the things of God and do to others as we would have them do to us (Luke 6:31).
As I read through the list, I know without Christ and the work of grace none of this is possible to perform perfectly; our flesh is weak. So praise God for the New Covenant of Grace we so desperately need. We need the Holy Spirit to help us become more like Jesus (Truth) in our moral character; because we cannot have fellowship with God if we are not living the Truth (1 John 1:6).
Psalm 15 A psalm of David (NLT)
1
Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill [your dwelling place]?
2
Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts.
3
Those who refuse to gossip or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends.
4
Those who despise flagrant sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the Lord, and keep their promises even when it hurts.
5
Those who lend money without charging interest, and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent.Such people will stand firm forever.
Prayer: Father, in a world that seems to be moving in the wrong direction of moral responsibility and integrity, please help us as your children to live according to your Word. In Jesus’ name. Amen.