Listen

Your laws are wonderful! That’s why I guard them. Access to your words gives light, giving simple folk understanding. I open my mouth up wide, panting, because I long for your commandments. Come back to me and have mercy on me; that’s only right for those who love your name.

Psalm 119:129-132

Think

What is something that you crave? Aside from water and food that we all need to survive, most of us would agree that we develop cravings for a certain food. For me, it is potato chips. I realize potato chips are not necessary to survival, but I associate them with comfort and crave them when I’m watching a good movie. Generally, I don’t stop with just a handful either. I can demolish half a bag in one sitting!

In this passage, the psalmist actually yearns for God’s laws and commandments. The psalmist develops this craving because he associates instruction with God’s love and mercy.

If we read God’s word only once in a while, we may never experience this yearning that the psalmist claims. Giving time each day to pore over Scripture opens our heart and mind to absorb the truths that God wants us to learn and to guard. This precious word becomes a necessity, something we cannot live without.

Gayle Taylor

Question to Ponder:

What is the best time each day when I can read Scripture and listen for God’s voice?

Pray

Lord, there are so many distractions in this world that beg for my attention.

Help me to establish my priorities and to set aside time to absorb your word.

Amen.

Go

To be wise is to be still… and to listen.

Listen for direction in God’s voice.