Understanding and Obedience

AM Psalm 119:1-24; PM Psalm 12, 13, 14
1 Kings 3:1-15; Acts 27:9-26; Mark 14:1-11

The Psalmist in 119 expresses how great it is to trust God, know God’s statutes, and accept God’s judgements. Verses 5 and 6 say, “Oh, that my ways were made so direct that I might keep your statutes! Then I should not be put to shame when I regard all your commandments!”

I am a fan of certainty. If I know the rules and trust those who made them, I can follow them and use less of my brain for decision-making. Most of us feel this way, so why do some people refuse to follow the rules even when they seem simple?

I realize there are many sources of Earthly authority. There is no one expert that we may safely give all power and all authority to without idolizing them above God. Therefore, when do we trust the government? Do we trust scientists, and if so, which ones? What about our religious leaders, neighbors, and friends? If they have conflicting guidance, how will we know which of these voices align with God’s voice?

If there is correlation between being part of a close community and being part of the spread of a virus, do we choose solitude against our instincts? In Psalm 13, verse 2, the Psalmist links confusion and grief and says, “How long shall I have perplexity in my mind, and grief in my heart, day after day?”

In these times of confusion, the story from 1 Kings resonates with me. When God says, “Ask what I should give you” in Solomon’s dream, Solomon asks for the gift of discernment. To know good from evil was more important to Solomon than wealth or longevity. The gift of discernment can sweep us away from confusion and grief and towards happiness and wholeness.

Written by Haley Hixson

I usually go to the 11:00 service and Practicing Presence. With the surge of the Delta variant of Covid 19, I try to remain flexible and discerning despite confusion and grief.