Wednesday, August 21, 2024

EmmDev 2024-08-21 [The Discipleship Journey] David's Devotions

David's Devotions

David was a man after God's heart - David had a heart for God. This implies a vibrant and living relationship between God and David. In this sense, David's devotional life speaks powerfully to our lives as disciples. Many of us want to be closer to God, and many of us even try to have regular devotions. How did David go about his devotions?

Let's look at Psalm 19

Psalm 19

For the director of music. A psalm of David.

1 The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
2 Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge.
3 There is no speech or language
where their voice is not heard.
4 Their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.

In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun,
5 which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion,
like a champion rejoicing to run his course.
6 It rises at one end of the heavens
and makes its circuit to the other;
nothing is hidden from its heat.

7 The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
8 The precepts of the LORD are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
9 The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure
and altogether righteous.
10 They are more precious than gold,
than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
than honey from the comb.
11 By them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.

12 Who can discern his errors?
Forgive my hidden faults.
13 Keep your servant also from willful sins;
may they not rule over me.
Then will I be blameless,
innocent of great transgression.

14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. (Psalms19:1-14)

He begins with CONTEMPLATION - reflecting on God's greatness. And the beauty of creation is a good signpost! Sunrises, flowers, birds, greens, blues, reds and yellows are all tributes to the goodness of God. Creation gives David a sense of order and rhythm - Its awesomeness (think of mountains and the sea) contrast powerfully against our finiteness and we are drawn to worship.

Next David goes to God's Word for REFLECTION. Verses 7-10 explain the significance of God's Word. Have a look at the nouns David uses: law, statutes, precepts, and commands. The verbs: Revive, make wise, give joy, and give light. If we are serious about getting nearer to God then we need to be treating ourselves to a regular diet of His Word. And when we do, we learn to fear(respect/reverence) God as He deserves. And we are equipped to serve God and glorify Him. While this requires commitment at first, like David we will find that it becomes precious and sweet.

David then moves to CONFESSION (v.12-13). This is a very honest moment where we bring ourselves to God - warts and all - confessing our need for His help.

He concludes with COMMITMENT (v.14) - giving Himself to God for the day ahead. Without this step the rest is in danger of becoming an academic exercise.

"DEAR LORD bring me to a point of being able to have regular and meaningful contact with YOU.
Help me to Contemplate YOUR Greatness,
Reflect on YOUR truth,
Confess that I need YOUR help
and Commit myself in YOUR Service."


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