Firmly Fixed

We know we have a great need to be in God's Word on a daily basis, and yet the struggle to do so can be real. The psalmist asks this question:

"How can a young person live a clean life?"
(Psalm 119:11, MSG).

In the busyness of our days, this is a question for us all - young or old. The climate of the days in which we live can distract and pressure us to compromise. Clean living, or purity, will only be maintained in our lives as we live with intentionally.

Thankfully, the psalmist not only asked the question, but also gave us the answer. A clean life can be obtained with determination and time spent in God's Word:

• His Word brings obedience (verse 9). Outward obedience will come from a heart seeking God. And His Word will bring a desire to obey Him in all areas of our lives.
• His Word keeps me from wandering (verse 10). Our hearts are prone to wander away from God, but His Word increases our desire to walk closely with God.
• His Word keeps me from sin (verse 11). Only the Scriptures have the power to keep us from sinning against God. His Word cultivates within us the wisdom and discernment to avoid falling into sin.

No other book holds the power to influence and mold our lives as the Bible. It is a book which imparts life because His Word becomes our life.

"God's Word must be so firmly fixed in our minds that it becomes the dominant influence in our thoughts, our attitudes, and our actions. One of the most effective ways of influencing our minds is through memorizing Scripture. David said, "I have hidden Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You." (Psalm 119:11)
~ Jerry Bridges

"I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."
(Psalm 119:11, NLT)

What will you hide in your heart this week? 

In His Love,
Joanne Viola

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash