Psalm 119 MSG
1-8 You’re blessed when you stay on course,
walking steadily on the road revealed by God.
You’re blessed when you follow his directions,
doing your best to find him.
That’s right—you don’t go off on your own;
you walk straight along the road he set.
You, God, prescribed the right way to live;
now you expect us to live it.
Oh, that my steps might be steady,
keeping to the course you set;
Then I’d never have any regrets
in comparing my life with your counsel.
I thank you for speaking straight from your heart;
I learn the pattern of your righteous ways.
I’m going to do what you tell me to do;
don’t ever walk off and leave me.
from “Psalms for Praying” Nan Merrill
Blessed are those whose ways are blameless,
who live with spiritual integrity!
Blessed are those who honor the Inner Being,
who follow You with their whole heart,
Who enfold the world with love and walk on peaceful paths!
You have shown us the way of Truth, the way that leads to freedom.
O, that I might ever reflect the Light!
Then I shall know inner peace, as I surrender myself into your Hands.
I will praise You with a grateful heart, as I lean on your great kindness.
As I forsake the path of darkness, O have mercy on me!
Reflection
We invite you to join us in reading through Psalm 119 the next several weeks. In the Message version Psalm 119 speaks of life as a journey, a road, we are on.
Prayerfully read with God through verses 1-8 three or four times times giving space between each reading. Notice what is brought to your attention. Spend time with God with that thought or word. Wonder with God, what might the invitation be to you today?
On a separate day or time read through the same “passage” in the Psalms for Praying. Notice what stands out to you at this time. Again, wonder with God what the invitation might be for you in this reading. Notice if there is a repeating idea or thought between the reading of the Message and the reading from Psalms for Praying. Be attentive to whatever the Spirit may bring to your attention.
Give gratitude for what God has brought to your awareness.