Obey

 I will obey Your decrees; don't utterly forsake me.
Psalm 119:8

I appreciate David's vulnerability here, which I'm sure we can relate to. If we are wise, we won't want God to forsake us. If He does, we're hopeless.

Thankfully, there're some powerful promises in Scripture to reassure us. 'Never will I leave you or forsake you', God promises His people. If we have failed Him yet again, we might be tempted to think that He will forsake us.

The implication in this verse is that David hasn't been obeying God's decrees. Yet in this verse, he makes a resolution to do so. What matters isn't so much a disappointing past, but a repentant present leading to a hopeful future.

If we want forgiveness without us having to be obedient to God, we miss the point. If we are forgiven, we will seek to live lives that are pleasing to God. His decrees aren't just suggestions to take or leave; they are to be obeyed.

'Almighty God, please don't forsake us, but enable us to obey Your decrees. For the honour of Your name, amen'.

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