Put Down Your Phone, Write Out a PsalmNäide

Rethinking all your friends named Derek

The Hebrew word for way is “derek” primarily refers to a physical path or road, but it is also used metaphorically to describe a course of life or mode of action."

In the Old Testament, "derek" or way can mean :

• a journey, or
• the manner in which one conducts oneself.
• It often signifies the moral and spiritual path one chooses.
• Depending on the choice, this either reflects obedience or disobedience to God’s commandments.

Strong’s Concordance notes that, “In ancient Israel, roads and paths were crucial for travel, trade, and communication. The concept of a ‘way’ was deeply embedded in the culture, symbolizing not only physical journeys but also spiritual and ethical directions.”

We understand this almost without context or explanation in the Christian tradition. We use the word “way” so frequently to describe the journey of our lives on earth.

David is one of the original people who helped identify and socialize this truth for us. We walk on the concept he helped to flesh out with his writing, and it’s sort of surreal to pause and take that in.

He cries, “Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes and I will observe it to the end” (Psalm 119:33, NRSV).

How fascinating! David isn’t seeking or trying to sell us “the hidden technique that will change everything for you—do this one thing!” like so many gurus have throughout time, including in the present.

For him, it’s not about a singular rule or command, but an entire approach to being.

David delights in the path of the commandments—the entirety of what they are, and all they represent, and what they lead him to: salvation.

What's amazing is that as he moves toward God and his commands, the things of God simultaneously rush toward him.

Let your steadfast love come to me, O LORD,
your salvation according to your promise (Psalm 119:41, NRSV).

Like a giant river, the things of God flow to David as he charges ahead in the direction God sets out. His heart and God’s “steadfast love” collide on this path.

May the goodness of God collide in your life and your way today as you run after Him!

Action steps

• Take time to write out Psalm 119:31 - 41 verse by verse.
• Get a journal or some paper and a pen.
• Put your phone in a drawer or another room.
• Get a physical Bible (so you won't get distracted by anything else).
• Reflect on what God is highlighting for you.