February 21, 2011

Psalm 37:23-40 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Matthew 18:1-14, Acts 26:1-18, Leviticus 5-7

Journal Entry

Scripture

30 The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom,
and his tongue speaks justice.
31 The law of his God is in his heart;
his steps do not slip.

Observation

This Psalm describes the path of the righteous vs the actions of the wicked. In 30 & 31, we see the importance of speech in all that we do. Specifically, the Psalmist refers to the righteous mouth that "utters wisdom" and "speaks justice." But then, the Psalmist correlates that to something important: "The law of his God is in his heart". Jesus repeats this theme in Matthew 15:18 as he stresses the importance of what comes out of a man's mouth as the indicator of what is in his heart. We always need to examine our speech as it indicates what is in us. When we speak to edify others, to condemn evil, and show compassion and encouragement, we speak with God in our heart. But many times we approach others with criticism and malice, ready to tear down and justify our own gains at the expense of others. We should take those instances as opportunities to re-examine ourselves.

Application

Speaking comes so easy for most and is taken for granted. We let the words fall from our mouths without much thought. I will try to speak with deliberation and purpose, instead of without thought. When I do speak, I will examine the words and see what their effects are, so that I may truly speak with the law of God in my heart.

Prayer

Lord, let me be open with my praise but sparing in my criticism. May my words reflect your will in my life.

--Charlie Jang