03 september, 2023

GUIDANCE THROUGH GOD'S WORD

(Growing in Faith, in Truth & in Spirit: GFTS 10)

The Psalmist tells us that the one who delights in “the law of the LORD” and meditates on it “day and night shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth fruit in its season, whose leaf also will not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper” (Psalm 1:2-3). The “law of the LORD” here refers to the Word of God and the instructions therein.

There is a great promise in these Scripture for those who “delight” and “meditate” on God’s Word, day and night. To “delight” is to love God’s Word and to “meditate” is to read and “chew” on it as a cow chew on the curd. It is in meditation that the Holy Spirit gives us wisdom and understanding and reveals His Truth to us. The Word reveals God and His will and purpose to us so that we can walk in His way. It is in doing this and obeying what He says and reveals through the meditation of His Word that we will be blessed.

The result of this constant meditation of God’s Word is that we will be “like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth fruit in its season, whose leaf also will not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper”. That means we will be evergreen spiritually - strong and steadfast in faith. Our faith is built up by the Word of God. People who do not read and meditate on it consistently will never have faith to trust God for great things.

It is also in obedience to God’s Word and instruction that we will ‘prosper’. Notice that “whatever he does shall prosper”. What a great promise! Faith and obedience hold great assurance for our life in Christ. Solomon reiterates this: “Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD” (Prov.16:20). Prosperity does not just mean “wealth and success” but it does include all of God’s blessings spiritually. So in whatever do for God in life and ministry, we will certainly prosper.

When young Joshua was appointed Leader of Israel after the death of Moses, he was unsure, apprehensive, and likely “scared” of this great responsibility. But God assured him with His Promise: “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success” (Joshua 1:8). Notice there are three important things Joshua had to do to guarantee success and prosperity.

Firstly, the Book (God’s Word) must not depart from his mouth. In the old days, the Jews read God’s Word out loud so that they may understand clearly. It also means to speak God’s Word of instruction and promise to empower their lives.

Secondly, Joshua is to meditate on God’s Word “day and night”. Throughout the day, God’s Word must guide and encourage him. Thirdly, he is to “observe to do” – that is, to obey what God has spoken and revealed to him. Then success and prosperity will follow him wherever he goes and whatever he does. This same promise is also all of us. Amen. 

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