Relationship with God Is the Key to Pleasing Him, not Religion

Jun 15

Jun 15 Relationship with God Is the Key to Pleasing Him, not Religion

Devos and Studies, Psalms Devos_Studies, God's Word

Pulled out of a dark pit

In my search for God, it wasn’t just a search for God, but a quest for the significance of life. And, of course, I sought what all of us do—the purpose of my life beyond mere existence.

Many people view religion to be restrictive. It certainly can be. “Religion is just a bunch of do’s and don’ts,” people will say. That was my perception as I struggled through adolescence into young adulthood.

So, I abandoned the religion of my childhood. Though “confirmed in the faith,” I left the church behind and wandered for many years. I was searching but with no clear direction. I wandered from God, but He never left me.

I came to realize God desires something beyond an attempt to keep a list of rights and wrongs. Slowly but surely, I came to see Jesus as the key who could unlock me from the cellar of my dark wanderings.

When I cried out to God, He heard me and led me out of that darkness.

This is a very personal psalm of David, and I continue to draw strength from David’s heart-wrenching cries for help and mindful utterances.

Scripture

For the choir director; a psalm by David.
I waited patiently for the Lord.
He turned to me and heard my cry for help.
He pulled me out of a horrible pit, out of the mud and clay.
He set my feet on a rock and made my steps secure.
He placed a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God.
Many will see this and worship. They will trust the Lord.
Blessed is the person who places his confidence in the Lord
and does not rely on arrogant people or those who follow lies.
You were not pleased with sacrifices and offerings.
You have dug out two ears for me.
You did not ask for burnt offerings or sacrifices for sin.
Then I said, “I have come!
(It is written about me in the scroll of the book.)
I am happy to do your will, O my God.”
Your teachings are deep within me.
I will announce the good news of righteousness among those assembled for worship.
I will not close my lips. You know that, O Lord.
I have not buried your righteousness deep in my heart.
I have been outspoken about your faithfulness and your salvation.
I have not hidden your mercy and your truth from those assembled for worship.
Let all who seek you rejoice and be glad because of you.
Let those who love your salvation continually say, “The Lord is great!”
But I am oppressed and needy. May the Lord think of me.
You are my help and my savior. O my God, do not delay!
(Psalms 40:1-4, 6-10, 16-17 GW) [Context– Psalms 40]

Reflections and Insights

Many literary elements fill this poignant psalm. It begins with a testimony of God’s rescue and declarations of God’s greatness. It ends with requests for God’s help and a blessing.

In the middle is a declaration by David that is prophetic. He speaks to the heart of what God desires. We also see this prophetic description of Jesus the Messiah in Hebrews 10:5-7 (also see Luke 24:44).

David realizes God isn't interested in sacrifices and offerings, though they’re required by the Law of Moses. God desires our trust and obedience from our deepest being.

After David’s prophetic proclamation, he returns to what currently weighs him down. David again calls out to the Lord to rescue him. Not just from his enemies, but from himself—David’s own failings.

David’s cry for help is personal and directed to God. He remembers how the Lord pulled him “out of a horrible pit,” and he asks God to save him once again.

Jesus came as the ultimate atoning sacrifice for humanity’s rebellion against God. His coming was foretold centuries before He came, and He will come a second time.

If we’ve experienced the Lord’s mercy and faithfulness, we are to proclaim the freedom we’ve found in Jesus to others until He returns.

Digging deeper to Make it personal...

Review the Scriptures above as you consider the following questions

How does this psalm begin? What does the psalmist (David) rejoice about?
What does he say about the Lord?
What does the Lord not take delight in or require?
What brings joy and why is this what God desires?
What specific things has David told people about the Lord?
What are David's two requests and why does he make them?
What blessing is given near the ending?
Do you feel burdened and restricted by things you should or shouldn't do? If so, why?
Have you experienced the freedom of God's mercy and grace in your life?
If so, in what specific ways have you experienced the Lord's mercy and faithfulness in your life?
Has the Lord put a "new song" in your heart?
Do you share what God's done in your life with others?