Thursday, January 16, 2014

Psalms 34:12-14

12 What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good?
13 Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.
14 Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.

Previously in verse 11 the Psalmist told the children to pay attention and he will teach them fear of the Lord.

He goes on in verse 12 to say that every man desires to live (and not die).  Every man wants a good and long life.  Then he proceeds to tell the children how to 'fear' the Lord and attain that good long life.  

Remember the multiple definitions of 'fear' that apply in this case::  'fear' means not only to be afraid, but to 'know', have a relationship with,  and 'reverence'  the Lord. 

Verse 13:  You want to have a good life?  Watch your mouth...!   Don't speak ugly bitter words. Don't lie.  Out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.   Our words indicate the state of our heart and our heart is our attitude which greatly affects what kind of life we will have.

Verse 14:  Stay away from evil.  Mind the company you keep.  If you run with a bad crowd you will turn  bad.  Don't do evil things.   The bible says resist the devil and he will flee.   Instead, do good.  Serve others.  Build into the lives of those around you.  Edify.   

What does it look like to seek peace...?     Don't argue.  Don't return a wrong doing with another wrong doing.  Forgive those who hurt you.  Don't seek revenge.   Revenge belongs to the Lord.

The bible says to 'pursue peace'.  Its not going to come to us.  In fact, the bible guarantees we will have trouble.  We have to take specific action to find peace.

You can also try this:  Pray and read the bible every day.   That is how to 'fear' of the Lord.

No comments: