May 7, 2011

Psalm 101 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Mark 11:12-19, 2 Corinthians 5:1-10, 1 Samuel 13-14

Journal Entry

Scripture

1I will sing of steadfast love and justice;
to you, O LORD, I will make music.
2I will ponder the way that is blameless.
Oh when will you come to me?
I will walk with integrity of heart
within my house;

Observation

This is a Psalm where David declares how he will manage his household and kingdom, And, how he will respond to those who live rightly and those who are unjust. David is committed to being godly and pure.

We are all called to reform our own hearts with the love and power of God. Using the first 2 verses David writes of 3 things that he will do. What is interesting to me is that as I study brain science and spiritual formation people state that it is nearly impossible to experience connection with God (and others) unless we are in a brain state of appreciation. David explicitly declares that he will sing of steadfast love and justice. This is a perfect example of what a brain state of appreciation looks like – if the singing is genuine.

Application

Today I will reflect on all the ways God is good to me and to his people. I will ponder the ways of the pure in heart. And, I will act in line with all your commands because I completely trust you.

Prayer

Help to reform my own heart so that I can keep my attention on your goodness and beauty and the ways that you make things right in the world. When I become aware of my failures, help me to confess them to you and apologize to my family and community immediately. When my attention drifts towards frustration help me to return to appreciation. I look forward to your counselor reforming my heart today.

--John Loppnow