It's been so long since I posted on this blog that I nearly forgot I once intended to do so. I have been creating a ton of "blog about this later" draft files that never actually make it to post. I suppose it's better to just get the thoughts out there and then comment later if I am inspired to do so. In that, I have resolved to post my incomplete thoughts.
Part of today's reading was in Psalm 39. While not all of the Psalm's are said to be written by King David, I believe (for no particular reason) that this one was.
I often find myself willing myself to "be a better Christian." To me, that means conscious acts of commission (like serving my wife, being thoughtful and contentious of others, attending church, reading the word, etc) and acts of omission (not swearing at work even though this place is like a cus factory, not getting angry or irritated with other people, etc). This text reminds me that the more I try to do things myself, even when those things are ones that are given to us through Christ, only leads to bitter failure. Christ gives us the power to become more like him, but he gives it to us in the power of the Holy Spirit. We have to turn off our motor and open the sail to His breath to utilize the gift.
Psalm 39:
1 I said, I will guard my ways, that I may not sin with my tongue; I will guard my mouth with a muzzle, so long as the wicked are in my presence.2 I was mute and silent; I held my peace to no avail, and my distress grew worse.3 My heart became hot within me. As I mused, the fire burned; then I spoke with my tongue [and asked God for guidance].
