Turning Point

I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes. Psalms 119:59 NIV

Thinking back over your life, remember a pivotal moment, a turning point when you made a decision that changed the trajectory of your life. It may have been stepping out of your comfort zone to accept a new position in a faraway place. Or it may have been more personal, like marriage, parenthood, or overcoming a significant physical challenge. Whatever it was, the change had far-reaching and unforeseen consequences. It's the juncture where the course of events shifts, leading to a new direction or outcome. 

In Psalm 119:57-60, the psalmist expresses a deep commitment to God and His teachings, a turning point in their spiritual journey. Let's look more closely at this passage.

• Verse 57: "You are my portion, Lord; I have promised to obey your words." The psalmist has chosen to embrace God above everything else fully. All other things–money, power, ego—must take a backseat to God's desire for us.

• Verse 58: "I have sought your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise." The psalmist has earnestly searched for God and thanks Him for his grace and promise. God's will is revealed only upon searching. God's voice is not a shout but a whisper.

• Verse 59: "I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes." Reflecting upon their life and in the light of God's direction, the psalmist acknowledges the need for redirections to align with God's commandments. God places detour signs on our spiritual roadways to save our lives. The roadway may still be bumpy, but our souls will be secure.

• Verse 60: "I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands." The psalmist wastes no time, moving without hesitancy into this new direction. This turning point is marked by a shift from mere knowledge of God's laws to a passionate pursuit of living them out in everyday life. We may see the detour signs and drive around them or stall, but we are unsure whether we want to follow their direction. 

When we accepted Christ, it was a spiritual turning point. Reflecting on our sinful condition, we felt God's grace calling us away from destructive darkness into His light and righteousness. But as we know from experience, our lives are not a single turning point but a series of turning points upon turning points; it is the natural order of spiritual maturity. Spiritual growth is a journey marked by a series of turning points, each an invitation to deepen our faith and renew our commitment to God's path. Each new day, God invites us to reflect, rededicate, and redirect to ensure our actions align with His will.

Heavenly Father,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude for Your boundless grace and unwavering promises. Your love and mercy are our guiding lights, and we offer our deepest thanks for these gifts.

Thank You, Holy Spirit, for Your constant presence that guides us through every moment. In times of spiritual reflection, we seek Your wisdom to illuminate our paths. As we prepare our hearts for rededication, we ask that You mold us to become more like Jesus Christ—compassionate, just, and faithful.

Spirit of Truth guide our steps and instill in us a sense of urgency to act upon Your divine inspirations. Grant us hearts that yearn for expediency in Your service so we may swiftly respond to Your call and fulfill Your will in our lives.

In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim