Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Who may Dwell with Lord?

Bible Reading:   Psalm 15

Key verse:  “Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your Holy mountain” Psalm: 15:1

DEVOTION

This short Psalm begins with a question, ends with a Promise, and the verses in between answer the questions illustrated in the first verse.
David the Psalmist, surely knew that to dwell in God’s presence required the commitment of Perfection unquestionably he knew of the various passages in Exodus that spoke of God’s presence in the cloud and fire that led his chosen people out of Egypt, a presence on the mountain that evoked fear in His People, a Presence in which He commended that they build a tabernacle for Him to dwell. From these questions David surely knew that to dwell in God’s presence was a serious matter.
David tells of the man who can dwell in the holiness Presence of the Lord. But who can pass the test? He must be a man of absolute integrity, filled with righteousness and truth, with no evil intent towards his neighbor, nor any reproach against his friends. Only Jesus Christ lives up to the description, only He meets the holy standards required to dwell in God’s Presence. But what about us? How does the Psalm apply to us. The humble and repentant are those who can abide with God.
When we live the Psalm 15 life and walk uprightly, refuse to speak against other, stand against evil, we will become like a Palm tree immovable, unshakable and fruitful. No matter what comes our way we will stand firm and prosper.
This Psalm presents a question that every person on earth should ask. Will I live with God forever? Being in God’s presence isn’t simply a spiritual experience but the best possible reality we can live in. Do we walk blamelessly, speak truthfully, refrain from gossip and insults. Do we meet the qualifications laid out in Psalm 15 that will allow us to draw near to God.  There is no one who does good. Like the Apostle Paul says we have fallen short of the glorious character of God, and don’t deserve to be near him. When we see how far we fall short and confess that to God. Jesus offers to give us his projection and qualifications.
Psalm 15 prompts self-reflection. Ask ourselves. Am I walking with integrity? Am I speaking truth from my heart? Am I honoring those who fear the Lord? This Psalm challenges believers to examine their lives and align their actions with the values of God’s kingdom.
 

PRAYER

Lord shows us about what it truly means to be close to you. Help us to live a life of integrity, to be honest in our words and actions, and to follow your path of righteousness, even when it is difficult. Lord we long to dwell with you. Help us to grow in holiness, to walk in your ways and to experience the joy of your presence in our lives.
 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

True integrity involves more than just outward actions; it is about being truthful and righteous even when no one is watching.


Mariam John
Epiphany Mar Thoma Church
 New York

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