Take Time To Study

Psalm 119:15 - "I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways."

Tomorrow marks the first day of school for most students in Minnesota. All four of my children are looking forward to beginning the next chapter of their lives in the morning. Breanna begins high school. Chris is a seventh grader. Jeremy is very excited about third grade. And, Zachary? He's just thrilled to be starting first grade. No more kindergarten for Zach!

Do you remember what it was like for you when you went back to school after a long summer? Maybe you are still in school, and reading this blog? Do you remember last year? Most students are excited about the first day of classes. There is the bittersweet realization that summer is over, but also the euphoria that comes with something new. That is until the homework starts piling up. It seems that within a few days or weeks, students are left longing for the long days of summer.

When I first read Psalm 119:15 today, I read it in the New Living Translation. The translators of the New Living Translation chose to translate this verse this way, "I will study your commandments
and reflect on your ways." I like this version. It reminds me of 2 Timothy 2:15, where Paul tells Timothy to study! God wants us to study His word. One of the ways that Webster defines the word study is: careful or extended consideration.

The last couple of weeks have helped me gain a new appreciation for the commands of God. They are worthy of our study. They are worthy of careful and extended consideration. They are worthy of being known. They are worthy of being allowed to change our lives. They are life giving. And they are God's words.

So, as students begin school this year, let's all make a renewed commitment to be students of the Word. Let's reflect on God's commands and reflect on His ways.


Dear God,

It was elsewhere that the psalmist said that your ways are too wonderful. They blow us away. You are mysterious, and yet you make yourself known. Help us all to be better students of your word this year. Help us to allow your word to be reflected upon in our very souls. Help us to allow you to transform us into the image of Christ. We love you.

In Jesus' name,

Amen.