Perfect Standards
Opening Prayer
Father God, You know I have many questions as I read Your Word. Answer some for me, I pray.
Read Psalm 15:1-5
[1]A psalm of David. LORD, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? [2] The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart; [3] whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbor, and casts no slur on others; [4] who despises a vile person but honors those who fear the LORD; who keeps an oath even when it hurts, and does not change their mind; [5] who lends money to the poor without interest; who does not accept a bribe against the innocent. Whoever does these things will never be shaken. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
How would you answer the question in v. 1?Have you ever looked at other members of your church and asked yourself, “What’s she (or he) doing here?” David is watching worshipers make their way to the tabernacle for worship, and asks the same question (1). See how his response (2,3) is covered by the second-greatest commandment: “Love your neighbor” (Matt. 22:39). It’s all about interpersonal relationships. Verse 4 touches on the first and greatest commandment, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart” (Matt. 22:36,37). Perhaps that’s why Jesus called these two the greatest of the Ten Commandments. If we can only follow them, we will automatically cover the other eight. David says the righteous man who remains in God’s presence will never fall away. According to these standards, do you qualify? Does anyone? If we read this psalm in context with the previous and next psalms, it’s clear that there is only One who fits the description (Psa. 24:10). The only way we can satisfy these requirements is through the righteousness of Jesus Christ.
Apply
Evaluate your life using the characteristics David lists. How do you measure up? Where will you seek to grow?
Closing prayer
Praise God that through Jesus you can satisfy God’s righteous requirements and have fellowship with him!
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