Genesis 35-36 / Matthew 12:1-21 / Psalm 15 / Proverbs 3:21-26
Psalm 15 is interesting because the text helps us discern who are of Christ and who are of the world. How? Let’s look!
“He who walks with integrity, and works righteousness, And speaks truth in his heart.”
You probably know what’s coming, so let’s look at this verse more closely.
Walks = manner of life
Integrity = healthful, unimpaired, innocent, what is complete or entirely in accord with truth and fact
Works righteousness = does by action – righteousness (as vindicated), justification (in controversy), deliverance, victory, and prosperity
Speaks truth = declares firmness, faithfulness and divine instruction
Heart = inner man, mind, will, soul, understanding
Did anyone else catch that last part? When we think about speaking truth, we think of words and sounds coming out of our mouths, but this verse says that we can “speak truth in our hearts.”
It is our first responsibility to encourage ourselves (although I know there are times when we need the help of others. Sometimes life is overwhelming, so it’s great to have others who are like-minded around to help us in those times.) in our faith. Most of our lives will be spent doing that as an inner dialogue.
Before a word comes out of our mouths, a thought is formed. Before a thought is formed, a worldview must be built and that comes from our life experiences. If those life experiences validate Truth to me, that’s good. If they build a false narrative, I must at some point challenge what I believe.
If I’m going to speak Truth to my own heart, so that what comes out of my mouth is Truth, I must study to find that Truth and fact.
I know, some of you are wondering where you would find that. I know of only one text that contains Truth, and that is the Bible, which is God’s inspired Word. Reading it alone doesn’t always allow us to come away with Truth; we must also ask the Holy Spirit to bring understanding.
And if you find yourself wanting to walk (manner of life) this way, it’s likely that you are of Christ, or you are at least wanting to head that direction.
There is a lot more in Psalm 15 that you could study for yourself. If you decide to do that, will you please share it with us? I would love to hear what others take away from the daily reading!
Have a blessed week!
