New Year Resetنموونە

Introduction

In a new year, we often aspire to reset the rhythms of life. We want to recalibrate, or in some cases, newly create what we consider to be healthy practices. We think about our calendar, physical health, work-life balance, and relationships. But what if the most powerful RESET we could make is to reconsider the lens through which we view life? God’s Word paints a divine perspective for every facet of life. As we consider what, where, and how to RESET, we look to Scripture and find that God has a lot to say.

Today's Bible Reading

Psalm 119:7-11 – David’s love letter to God’s word

RESET: How I See Myself

In today’s reading, David – the Psalmist who went from shepherd to king – helps us try on a new lens. As we determine to RESET the way we see ourselves, we must remember that real change takes time. This Psalm reads like a prayer that resonates with anyone feeling the pressure of transformation. In the New Living Translation, it says,

As I learn your righteous regulations,
I will thank you by living as I should!
I will obey your decrees.
Please don’t give up on me!

How can a young person stay pure?
By obeying your word.
I have tried hard to find you—
don’t let me wander from your commands.
I have hidden your word in my heart,
that I might not sin against you.

I appreciate and relate to David’s admission that it is difficult to stay true in this journey of faith. He pleads for patience, admits that he’s prone to wander, and confesses that he’s tempted to sin. It is comforting to know that we are in good company with the influential men and women in the Bible when we struggle to stay focused on what God has called us to. It is not always an easy road. But we can also aspire to the determination in David’s words.

His “I will” statements can become our declarations as we pray in faith. As we spend time reading and reflecting on God’s Word, it will begin to grow in our hearts and minds, like seeds planted in good soil. When we obey His decrees, it grows purity to fill our motivations and perspectives. Hiding His truth in our hearts will strengthen us to face temptation, like a weapon we can wield when an enemy comes to attack.

God’s Word builds a pathway for us to find our way back to Him, no matter where we begin or how far we wander.

Reflect

Which words do you most resonate with in today’s passage? What are the challenges you face in allowing God’s Word to impact the way you’re living your life?

Pray

Heavenly Father, I want to be close to You. I want to know what Your will is for me. I want to know how to follow Your voice. Thank you for never giving up on me. Can you help me understand how to hide Your Word in my heart? I don’t want to wander, but I know I am prone to. Would You seal these truths in my heart so that they can grow into greater understanding and maturity in my life? Thank You for Your Word that shows me the pathway to You. In Jesus’ precious name, I pray. Amen.