THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus
Monday, June 17, 2024

Lord, misery marked me. And depending how A&M played, grumpy described me too. Before coming to our senses and coming to you, we were negative, with a sour disposition. Now, seeing life through your eyes, optimism and hope gives us a better perspective on matters. Nonetheless, we must use caution that in our enthusiasm, we do not wrongly claim faith when, in fact, we’re denying reality. The psalmist knew this tendency to overlook facts could derail faith.

“Keep me from lying to myself; give me the privilege of knowing your instructions” (Psalm 119:29).

Lord, your Word instructs Christ followers how to live and conduct our affairs. Strengthen us to live by your principles and not do our own thing. Because your ways are contrary to our ways, without your Spirit guiding our inner man, deciphering the truth becomes more challenging.

During that ugly apple incident in the Garden, the devil tempted Eve with lies. “Did God really say that?” “God doesn’t really mean what he says, does he?” “God doesn’t want you to be enlighten to all that’s going on.” He hasn’t stopped lying since. “Hey, a little sin never hurts anybody. Besides, we live by grace now. Live it up!” He’s cunning and sneaky, using half-truths of your Word to deceive folks. Sadly, I’ve fallen for his lies before.

The psalmist went proactive against the devil’s lies. He declared he would put “your Word in his heart so he might not sin against you” (Psalm 119:11).

“I have chosen to be faithful; I have determined to live by your regulations” (Psalm 119: 30)

Lord, that I might do the same. You give your followers the Holy Spirit who partners with our spirit. Your Spirit leads us into all truth.

No more lying to myself. Amen, Jesus.