Psalm 119:9-16

^{Since July, I've been slowly reading through the book of Psalm in addition to studying other parts of the Bible.  I decided to start doing this when I was feeling far from God one day.  In the time that I've been working through it, I have found that it is such a refreshing book to read.  Many of the chapters can be read as prayers or worship to God.  Others reveal struggles that were faced by the author and give comfort to me in the times when I don't feel very strong.}  

^{Earlier this week, I read Psalm 199:9-16 and thought it was so simple and so profound.  The question posed in verse nine is one that I think many people struggle with.  What should we be doing?  What should we avoid doing?  Yet the answer given here is so simple: live according to the word of God.  Like most things, it sounds easier than it is.  However, the author is so wise.  He immediately goes to God asking for help.  We must do our part and seek God, but He is the only one who can give us the power to live according to His word.  We cannot do it alone.}  

^{Let us go humbly to God and allow Him to work in our lives.  Dive into scripture.  Pray fervently.  Don't be afraid to sit before Him in silence.  Allow His peace to wash over you like only He can do.  If that all seems a bit too much, just read the Bible.  It is our guide for how to live our lives righteously.  If we love God and believe that He is good, we should also desire to serve Him with our lives.  The Bible also reveals the character of God.  We have such a powerful tool in the Bible, and it should not be wasted.  If you haven't picked yours up in a while, do it today.  God is not mad at you for allowing it to collect a little dust.  He loves you more than you can imagine.}  

^{Psalm 119:9-16}

⁹ How can a young person stay on the path of purity?
    By living according to your word.
¹⁰ I seek you with all my heart;
    do not let me stray from your commands.
¹¹ I have hidden your word in my heart
    that I might not sin against you.
¹² Praise be to you, Lord;
    teach me your decrees.
¹³ With my lips I recount
    all the laws that come from your mouth.
¹⁴ I rejoice in following your statutes
    as one rejoices in great riches.
¹⁵ I meditate on your precepts
    and consider your ways.
¹⁶ I delight in your decrees;
    I will not neglect your word.