The Right!

Rights! We enjoy rights of various kinds. Some are clearly established by law. Others are assumed. However, is it possible for individuals to claim rights that may not be rightfully theirs?

The psalmist Asaph wrote. . .
“(16) But to the wicked God says: ‘WHAT RIGHT HAVE YOU TO RECITE MY STATUTES OR TAKE MY COVENANT ON YOUR LIPS? (17) For you hate discipline, and you cast my words behind you.’” ( Psalm 50:16-17 ESV)

How many want to lay claim to God’s promises -- even talking about them frequently -- who appear to ignore His commands? God’s promises are a revelation of His love for us, but keeping His commands is the sign of our love for Him. (note John 14:15 & 21 and 1 John 5:3) Is our life expressing that love through a SUBMISSION TO HIS WILL?

There are also those who seem eager to direct God’s commands at others while neglecting to uphold them in their own life. Paul noted such in his letter to the church at Rome. ( Romans 2:21-23) Is our love for God reflected in the PERSONAL APPLICATION of His life enhancing principles?

Note the text again from the New Living Translation.
“(16) But God says to the wicked: ‘Recite my laws no longer, and DON’T PRETEND THAT YOU OBEY ME. (17) For YOU REFUSE MY DISCIPLINE and TREAT MY LAWS LIKE TRASH.’” ( Psalm 50:16-17 NLT) [© 1997, Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House]

Those who truly have the right to recite God’s commands and promises are those who are STRIVING TO LIVE RIGHT because they are the ones whose life reveals a true understanding of them. Rather than being viewed as trash, God’s commands are viewed as precious wisdom for enhancing life now and leading toward the glorious eternity to come. May the genuineness of our love for God and His Will be reflected through our choice to live right before Him. It is in the continuance of a right relationship with God that we can have confidence in receiving the blessings He offers.

Have a great day MAINTAINING A LOVING APPRECIATION FOR GOD’S DISCIPLINE AND DIRECTION!
Carl

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