Psalm 119:64 The earth is filled with your love, Lord;
    teach me your decrees.

God always stands ready to teach us, but we have to be willing to be taught. Again I am reminded of my students over 40+ years of school teaching. Some were eager to learn, and were a delight. Some were rebellions and resentful, and caused real problems, and some were simply indifferent, enduring class because they had to. Sadly, that last category might have been the biggest. I think people tend to fall into the same categories in relation to God. Those who are hungry to know more of Him learn quickly, anchoring their faith in Him and persevering regardless of the circumstances. Those who are set on doing their own thing make all sorts of trouble, especially for themselves, and sadly, often for a lot of people around them. And then there are the run-of-the-mill people, who believe in a general sort of way that God exists, but they neither seek after Him nor rebel against him. One of my seminary professors, Dr. Cal Guy, was deeply committed to evangelism and missions, and he said those were the hardest to deal with. Rebellious people at least care about God! He told the story of when he was a pastor, going door-to-door to invite people to his church, and one man spat in his face, and it wasn’t just saliva. A few years down the line, that man became an elder in his church! The writer of Psalm 119 was obviously someone who cared deeply about God and His Word, and as such, is a good example for us. We too need to desire, and ask, God to teach us all that we need to know to serve Him, to be children who warm His Father-heart, bringing Him glory.

As I have written many times, I grew up in a home where faith was a given, and I don’t think I ever doubted the reality of God. At the same time, I don’t think I always, or even particularly, understood how He cares about, and relates to, my everyday life. Over the years He has deepened my understanding, and with it, my love and gratitude toward Him. As I was starting to write this morning, I felt the Lord showing me that how people relate to me is a reflection of how they relate to Him. After all, Jesus said, “Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.” (John 15:20) I am never to think that I am Jesus, or that I do everything perfectly, but at the same time I should remember that I represent Jesus to a lot of people. When they react to me, it’s not necessarily me they’re reacting to. I am always to speak the truth in love, but never compromise out of a fear of someone’s reaction. I’ve got to keep watch over my own commitment and obedience, and leave the results to God. Some people will indeed learn from my example, and turn to Him.

Father, thank You for this calming, encouraging Word. May I seek You with my whole heart, loving You and loving my neighbor and allowing Your Holy Spirit to work through me toward those around me, for their blessing and Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!