‹ Back

Psalm 119:144 "Thy testimonies are righteous for ever; give me understanding that I may live."

 

God's word is true forever. He speaks to us in various ways in order that we might know that truth and abide by it for our own good. God knows that we will never be truly happy without Him, so He gives us His commandments and testimonies to follow so we can get there.

 

But what do we do when we feel confusion? When we know His commandments, but we feel like we're being pulled into a gray area, and we are unsure what to do? I find myself in that situation so often, more so lately than ever! That confusion led me to the practice of discernment, which helps a lot, but I still get caught up in the struggle between my (perhaps too strict) understanding of His law and what it appears, simply by my circumstances, that He is asking me to do, or at least sit with patiently for a while.

 

The one benefit of this confusion is that has led me to constant prayer. I tell Him about my daily uncertainties, sometimes I even voice my frustration to Him. He is patient with me, and reminds me that when I mess up, I should always come back to Him. He also reminds me that He does not allow more than I can handle, but He does want me to learn, to practice what I learn, and to act. So, like David, I ask God to "give me understanding that I may live."