The Power Of God’s Precepts

The Power Of God’s Precepts

The power of God’s precepts is found in Psalms 119:129-136. These teachings guide the moral behavior of God’s people based on the truth of His word. Here are three ways they empower believers.

The Power of God’s precepts. They guide us on a lighted path.

The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. (ESV, Psalm 119:30)

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (ESV, Psalm 119:105)

Our culture today celebrates individual, moral freedom. Behavior once considered wrong is now celebrated. And the laws that restrained it repealed. Supporters promised more individual autonomy. Higher enlightenment. Increased personal rights. And ultimately, greater individual happiness. But is this the case?

Because the opposite appears to be true. There’s greater moral confusion than ever before. Increased loneliness. Unhappiness. Darkness. And anger. So much anger everywhere you look.

In contrast, God’s word is a light. It illuminates the path of those who follow it. Increases your understanding of moral right and wrong. And guides your steps of faith in a world of increasing darkness. On the way, you discover that God’s precepts guide you towards a life of righteousness that honors God.

The Power of God’s precepts. They guard us from oppression

Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me. (ESV, Psalm 119:133)

Critics often claim that God’s law is burdensome with its legalistic following of rules. But the writer here claims the opposite. God’s precepts act as guard rails to protect him from the lure and addictive power of immoral behavior.

The Hebrew word for “Iniquity” is a-wen and means evil behavior. The Hebrew word for “dominion” is shalat and means to have power or to rule over. And this is the reality when human passions and lust are unleashed with no inhibitions or restrictions. The behavior often becomes addictive. And the immoral freedoms you celebrate and indulge in with reckless abandon become your master.

Meanwhile, God’s precepts take you on a journey of purpose, meaning, and joy. They guide you in a life that’s meant for you. And grow you into the person He intends you to be.

The Power of God’s precepts. God’s word sets you free

Redeem me from man’s oppression, that I may keep your precepts. (ESV, Psalm 119:134)

If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. (ESV, John 8:31-32)

The Hebrew word for “oppression” is osheq and means deceitfully gotten or unjust gain. In other words, God’s precepts guide you in walking with personal integrity. Another challenge when navigating a world full of scams and unscrupulous behavior.

Despite that, we’re called to demonstrate honest and ethical behavior. Even when it’s a disadvantage next to unethical competition. Because God’s word is truth that sets you free. Freedom of conscience. And the stress in covering one lie with another. Furthermore, the honest reputation you earn over time becomes a rich and satisfying reward.

Studying and following God’s precepts consistently is like a slow drip. A steady jog. Because as you absorb God’s truth and practice it, subtle, but profound changes occur in your life. In how you think, act, and react. Sure, life still throws curveballs that you swing at and miss. But you’ll feel more settled. And with a confidence that God’s precepts are an important key to a meaningful life.

About Chip Tudor:

Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview. This blog is originally published here.

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Three Bible Precepts For Life Success

Three Bible Precepts For Life Success

Three Bible Precepts for life success. The Bible speaks a lot on the meaning and path to life success. Here are three precepts it teaches. Oddly, I did not come by them through deep scriptural study although they are clearly taught in the Bible.

But from a remark my orthopedic surgeon made during an office visit as we planned for my upcoming total knee replacement surgery.

He said there are three parts to a successful surgery. My part, your part and God’s part, I apply my surgical skills, you do the rehabilitative work, and God provides the healing. Here’s how it applies to all aspects of life.

Three Bible Precepts For Life Success. You have to do the work

In physical rehab, no pain, no gain is a reality. As someone that’s undergone multiple knee surgeries and both shoulders I know this personally. You have to push through painful physical therapy to insure full range of motion and regain strength. Otherwise, you may still get better, but likely end up with physical limitations.

Successful athletes, entrepreneurs, and top leaders will agree. Professional success takes personal initiative, accepts personal responsibility and does the work. Period. No excuses. Looking for others to blame. Demanding exceptions. But pursuing the idea that persistence pays. And then facing adversity, finding workable solutions, and pushing forward.

It’s a battle against our sin nature

It’s natural to seek the easy path. Gravitate towards security, comfort, and pleasure. Find the quick and convenient. Because this is part of our human sin nature. Work ethic, however, is learned. It pushes past immediate gratification and perseveres for a greater reward.

And this same challenge is presented to Christ-followers too. Although we are saved by faith and don’t work FOR salvation, we are told by Paul to work OUT our salvation. In other words, to actively pursue a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Live a life of obedience to God’s word. Labor for the Kingdom of God and produce fruit.

 Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few;  therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” (ESV, Matthew 9:37-38)

Three Bible Precepts For Life Success. You have to rely on others

I needed a skilled orthopedic doctor for knee replacement surgery. And I was totally dependent on my wife who worked full time, took over all my regular home tasks and still managed to care for me physically during the first two weeks following surgery.

The point is, every success story includes the contributions of other people. Parents, teachers, coaches, and mentors who support you along the way. Along with co-workers whose strengths balance your weaknesses in building successful organizations.

For Christ-followers, this community of “others” is the church. It is where we find encouragement, support, and accountability. But it takes more than once a week worship attendance. And requires intentionally building relationships through church related groups, activities, and ministries. Where you both give and receive.

Three Bible Precepts For Life Success. You have to recognize God is sovereign

Although knee replacement surgeries are fairly routine, nothing can be taken for granted. Blood clots, infections, and other complications are beyond human control. Ultimately, God provides healing. And so I believe, exercise faith, and pray for God’s sovereign will to do so.

Because scripture teaches that God is faithful and trustworthy. His word is true. And in His sovereignty, He fully commands and directs this world towards a conclusion.

To me, life without this assurance of God is unbounded, lacks moral consistency, and meaningful purpose. With no sense of life beyond this life then what’s the point of success anyway?

Furthermore, a sovereign God provides the one thing you can’t get anywhere else. And with it a perspective that sees beyond every success and failure in life. An eternal hope.

Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.

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