We are reading the Bible through together this year, using the Discipleship Journal Reading Plan published by the Navigators. You can download it free of charge from: https://www.navigators.org/resource/bible-reading-plans/

Today’s 4 readings are: Matthew 6:16-24; Acts 9:1-19; Psalm 15, Genesis 34-35.

Psalm 15 is both delightful, and terrifying. Delightful in the picture it paints of one who would walk with God. Terrifying in how far short I fall in every respect. 

Who indeed can dwell on God’s holy hill, when what it takes to qualify to do so, I’ve long since failed at?

O that I would walk blamelessly. But even if I did from this moment forward, what about my past?

That I would always do what is right – but I fail in that every hour.

And falsehood still finds its way into my heart. I lie to myself about my own goodness; lie about others to feel better about myself; and worst of all, lie about God – failing to know the real truth of Him as fully revealed in Jesus. Still harboring the lies of Eden that God is not ALL good and has only my best interest at heart – without flaw.

How I have slandered others – especially those with whom I disagree.

And I’ve not always done only good to my neighbor – even my closest neighbor, my spouse, my child, my brothers and sisters in Christ.

And there have surely been times when I’ve reproached my friend needlessly.

I have often – and still have the tendency to be impressed and intimidated by the wicked as adding some perceived value to me if they are brilliant, talented, astute, accomplished, powerful, recognized, forceful, and attractive.

And I have failed to honor those who fear the Lord regardless of their station.

At times, when my promises appeared as though they would cost me more than I planned, I’ve reneged on them to spare myself.

I’ve lent not out of love, but to receive a return, and had a heart which can be bribed from being fully impartial.

What hope then is there for me that I might one day live with my God in His holy mountain?

But one.

That Christ my substitute has fulfilled all of this. He hasn’t erred in even the slightest. And that His perfect righteousness is imputed to all who put their trust in Him and Him alone.

Hallelujah! What a Savior!