The Psalmist said, "I thought on my ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies. I made haste, and delayed not to keep thy commandments" (Psa. 119:59, 60). Many excellent lessons can be gleaned from this passage.

1. He Considered His Ways: Some never take self inventory. They never look to the end of their behavior. But this man "thought" on his ways. He may have asked himself, "Where are my deeds leading me?" Paul said, "Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves" (2 Cor. 13:5). How long has it been since you thought on your ways? In view of the inevitable facts of death, judgment, and eternity, is it not time to search your ways?

2. He Turned To God's Word: First, he turned; he changed his ways. Reflection will not avail anything if you are unwilling to change when you find fault with your present course. Secondly, he turned to God's testimonies, to God's way. One cannot find God apart from God's testimonies. One cannot find God by accepting human creeds and "joining a church" like he would some civic organization or social club. Turning to God involves a complete sacrifice of self will and of self ways. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding" (Prov. 3:5).

3. He Quickly Obeyed God: You may "intend" to obey God "someday." But the longer one delays, the easier it is to serve self lusts and desires. Obedience to God becomes stacked on a shelf marked "someday." Often, however, death intervenes and that someday never dawns. The Bible says, "behold, now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation" (2 Cor. 6:2). The Psalmist "made haste" to obey God and to keep His commandments. Examine yourself, turn to God's word, and obey His will. Why do you delay?

Truth Magazine, XVIII:28, p. 2
May 16, 1974