How can we experience unity in our world?
Trivia:
Good guesses everyone! I ask ed you; What is the title of the Jeopardy theme song? It is “Think”. This song was originally composed by Merv Griffin in 1963 as a lullaby for his son named “A time for Tony”. However, it reached true fame when it was used as a 30 second countdown song for Jeopardy.
Who claimed to have purchased the Liberty Bell in 1996 as an April Fools prank?
Challenge:
Psalm 119:73-80 “You made me; you created me. Now give me the sense to follow your commands. 74 May all who fear You find in me a cause for joy, for I have put my hope in Your word. 75 I know, O Lord, that Your regulations are fair; You disciplined me because I needed it. 76 Now let Your unfailing love comfort me, just as You promised me, your servant. 77 Surround me with Your tender mercies so I may live, for Your instructions are my delight. 78 Bring disgrace upon the arrogant people who lied about me; meanwhile, I will concentrate on Your commandments. 79 Let me be united with all who fear You, with those who know Your laws. 80 May I be blameless in keeping Your decrees; then I will never be ashamed.”
In this stanza the writer reflects on affliction/trials that comes to even those who are faithful ones, not just upon those who are disobedient/prideful. We will notice just how those who are committed to obedience/submission to God look at the Lord’s corrective action to His children.
In verse 73 he recognizes the intimate connection that His Heavenly Father has on his behalf, “you created me”. Then he requests His assistance in understanding the why of His commands.
Next, in verse 74, he requests that due to his desire to properly follow the guidance that God gives, so that others will be filled with the spirit of joy due to this proper outlook, “I put my hope in your word”.
Then verse 75 he recognizes the importance/fairness of the laws that have been handed down to the nation of believers. Also, he understands the necessity for these guidelines being placed in their lives.
Finally, he requests that His Father God covers him with His tender mercy in verse 77 and His unfailing love in verse 76. Due to his understanding that these guidelines are necessary, as well as, beneficial, and that they ultimately bring joy, delight, and unity to all who follow in His ways.
Lastly, the writer requests for the Lord to be aware that his desire is to live without blame or shame due to the fact that he desires to bring honor to his God throughout a world where there are those who live in the world of unlearned, disobedient, ignorant people groups.
SO GO WITH GOD my fellow believers for harmony, joy, fearlessness, are just some of the benefits of living obediently in our Heavenly Father’s guidance.