July 1, 2011

Psalm 128 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Luke 7:1-10, Colossians 1:1-14, 1 Chronicles 1-2

Journal Entry

Scripture

"Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in his ways! You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands;
you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you" (Ps 128:1-2).

Observation

The word "fear" tends to conjure up negative feelings for most people. More specifically, it tends to give off the vibe of distance or aloofness. However, throughout the Scripture, God's people are repeatedly called to fear the Lord. So, why is the fear of the Lord such an integral part of our walk with God? What does the fear of the Lord have to do with our spiritual walk? The passage for this morning provides us with some helpful clues. First, It is only those who fear the Lord who would take God's words seriously enough to live by them (vs.1). Secondly, it is only those who live according to the good and perfect will of God that can enjoy the fruitful life as God intended (vs.2). Thus, the more one fears the Lord, the more one obeys the Lord. And the more one obeys the Lord, the more "fruit" he or she will reap and enjoy.

Application

I will express my fear of the Lord today by joyfully obeying His ways in all that I do--eg. loving my family, serving others, maintaining pure thoughts, and etc.--so that God may bless the labor of my hands on this day.

Prayer

Abba Father, teach me how to properly fear you so that I may continue to walk in your ways instead of insisting in my own ways which often leads me astray. Father, also help me to put my complete trust in your good and perfect will for me as your beloved child so that I may joyfully obey you throughout this day. It is in Christ name I pray. Amen.

--