The Right Way
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Key Verse: “The LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.” Selected Scriptures: |
THE LESSONS IN THIS month’s series focus on various aspects of Christian endeavor and experience as presented in the Book of Psalms. The ‘Right Way’ is emphasized in this week’s Key Verse where we are reminded that God has his eye on those who are seeking to know and serve him. This is in contrast to the ways of the unrighteous who will not be blessed.
The Lord’s people recognize the significance of the fundamental truth of the opening passage of the psalm which says, “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.” (Ps. 1:1) The true child of God is instructed to have no part in the unrighteous elements of present society, nor to have any sympathy or fellowship with these. During the present Gospel Age, consecrated Christians have responded to the special calling that has been extended to those who are prepared to separate themselves from the world along with its unholy and degrading influences.
The admonition to seek righteousness is quickly recognized by the Lord’s people. We read, “His delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” (vs. 2) The pure in heart appreciate these principles of God’s laws and strive to live in harmony with them. They are eager to be pleasing to their Heavenly Father, and direct their energy toward growth in meekness, humility, and love in all of life’s affairs. They abide in the promises of God with fullness of faith and trust.
Our attention is further directed to the Divine law in this lesson’s selected scriptures, “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.”—Ps. 19:7-10
The law of love prevails among those whose hearts are in tune with these wise precepts. Adhering to these infallible rules of righteousness inevitably transforms the very being and character of the child of God as he strives to conduct his life accordingly. Those whose hearts are not right, the psalmist says (Ps. 1:4,5), are like “chaff” that is quickly blown away by the wind. They will not endure before the seat of Divine judgment, nor in the congregation of the righteous.
The pure in heart seek the right way, and respond to Divine providence with positiveness. They give prayerful consideration to the marvelous teachings and ways of God, and show evidence of the graces of spiritual growth as outlined in his Word. The psalmist uses symbolic language to describe this Christian growth. The true child of God is seen as a beautiful tree that has been planted by God, and which derives its growth from the life-giving waters of Truth. Its increase and fruitage is reflected in the beautiful spreading branches that provide blessings to all who bask in it. “He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”—Ps. 1:3