O Lord, who may abide in your tent? Who may dwell on your holy hill? Those who walk blamelessly, and do what is right, and speak the truth from their heart;” vss. 1-2
Psalm 15
This psalmist believed that the Lord had strict standards for all who were a part of the Jewish faith community. This strictness has long been a principal teaching for followers of Christ as well. Some know what it’s like to have every word and deed scrutinized by elders and parents. Some congregations focused on matters of morality, especially those matters having to do with sex or pleasure. The psalmist was of course concerned about personal morality but seems to have been more interested in how believers treated others. He enjoined his readers speaking the truth and not slandering or doing evil to their friends and neighbors. He tells them to always keep their oaths and never to lend money at interest. While people who live by grace sometimes imagine that walking blamelessly isn’t important, our scriptures tell a different story. The things we do make a difference and are essential to the witness of our faith communities. While we can at times get all hot bothered by trivial things, those directives mentioned by the psalmist are not to be ignored. Lies, insults, and slander undermine our credibility and set a horrible example to those we are called to serve. And they certainly aren’t what is expected of us as citizens of the peaceable kingdom!
Thought for the Day: What could be wrong with lending money at interest?
0 Comments