Living the Blessed Life of Integrity

The Psalms in today’s Bible reading* speak of the blessings of those who live lives of integrity. Psalm 15 speaks of the blessings of obedience, practicing righteousness, and keeping God’s word at all cost.

Psalm 23 is probably the most recognizable Psalm to many of us. David acknowledges that God is his shepherd, Who takes care of every need he has. He continues to talk about the relationship he has with God. In verse 4, David changes his view from the Third Person (“He”) to the Second Person (“You”) as he expresses his intimate relationship.

Psalm 24 speaks of the blessings of living a life of purity and seeking God’s face.

In Psalm 25 David acknowledges that he needs God to intervene in his life. He knows that God must guide him. He acknowledges that he has sinned against God. He asks God to deal with him according to His goodness.

In Psalm 47, the Sons of Korah speak of God’s awesomeness. They encourage God’s people to praise Him. And they speak of God’s preeminence over earthly kings.

Application

It would be easy to read these Psalms and think that if we could just live a good life, we would live in God’s blessings. But living a life of integrity is more than just doing the right things and not doing the wrong things. That’s called moralism. And the Bible rejects moralism because we can never be good enough. Our hearts are deeply affected by the Fall. (Jeremiah 17:9) We must have a new heart in order to please God. (Ezekiel 36:25–27)

Living the blessed life of integrity is impossible
without an abiding relationship with God.

Now note, that I used a qualifying description of the relationship, abiding. Many think that if they just establish a relationship with God, they have the required “fire insurance” to keep them out of hell. But unless you’re experiencing an abiding relationship, how can you know that you actually have a relationship with God?

* Chapters covered in today’s reading:
Psalms 15
Psalms 23
Psalms 24
Psalms 25
Psalms 47