Today’s scripture: Psalm 86 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (David Zier):
“Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart to revere your name” (verse 11).
I found myself meditating on Psalm 86:11 after I read it. Verse 11, which is stated above, was the verse that I was drawn to the most. For some reason it seems that many of us already think that we know the way, that we walk in the truth, and that our hearts are undivided. When I look at the world, the people around me, and myself, I wonder how many of us have lost sight of this psalm and this message.
What would happen if we all prayed that God would open our minds and souls to unite with God in the way of this psalm? It seems only a humble heart can pray this way. When I realize my own limitations, it causes me to want to be more open to God and to take in more. When we get to those places in life where we feel, “I know it, do it, follow it, in every way,” I wonder how teachable we really are in those times. I imagine not very.
I am well beyond the days when all I know about God lives in my head, and all I know is stored there and accumulated. I have learned from our Christian ancestors of the past that the more I encounter God, the less I know and the more unknowing I become. God is more than I can imagine.
How can we allow God to teach us? Prayer and Bible study allow for encounters with God. That still small voice within is a way God speaks to us. Listening is part of praying.
Do you allow yourself to encounter God in all of creation? When was the last time you took a walk in nature?
God speaks to us through others when gathered together for worship, study, social action, fellowship, prayer, or breaking bread together, much like in the early church.
Think about yourself: What is it that works for you when you encounter God and learn about yourself and more of what it means to walk in God’s path?
Prayer for the day: God, keep my heart open to you, and united in your way.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.