King David understood the power and impact that God’s laws and precepts had in his life. In Psalms 17:4 (NLT), he declared: “I have followed your commands, which keep me from following cruel and evil people.” Notice that he “followed” God’s commands. Serving God is not passive; it requires our participation. And in order to be pleasing to God, we have to know what His will is. His will is found in His word. David actively studied God’s word, and he also learned from God’s representatives (priests, prophets) in his day. Because of this, he developed a high level of discernment which would reveal to him how to live righteously. It also revealed to him those that he needed to stay away from. He knew that following cruel and evil people would destroy him. He said in Psalms 19:10,11 that God’s judgments are “More to be desired are they than gold, Yea, than much fine gold; Sweeter also than honey and the [f]honeycomb. Moreover by them Your servant is warned, and in keeping them there is great reward.” Knowing God’s word will give you discernment in life, business and ministry. It will give you that “sixth sense” that will allow you to avoid foolish and harmful scenarios. The Spirit of God will bring God’s word to your memory to deliver you and show you the paths you are to take in your life. Today, say like David: I joyfully follow your commands and precepts.
Psalms 17:4 (NLT) “I have followed your commands, which keep me from following cruel and evil people.”
