Look for the Conditions

Surely he will never be shaken; a righteous man will be remembered forever. He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD. His heart is secure, he will have no fear. Psalm 112:6-8 (New International Version)

There have been many times in my Christian life when this passage of Scripture would taunt me more than comfort me. The idea of not being shaken or in fear was as far removed from me as a steadfast and secure heart. But that was because I failed to see the conditions of such a proclamation. The picture that is being painted with God-breathed words is not the experience of many people….even among Christians. And when it isn’t, we want to blame God or others and walk with a confused and bitter spirit. When our life is in shambles and our foundations lie in a crumbled heap, we shake our heads and ask through clenched teeth and tear stained faces, “What happened?” If we really want to know and we have a teachable disposition, then God’s Word is opened up to answer us in a life changing way.

This morning the conditions are clear! This passage is speaking of one who lives a righteous life and places complete trust in God. When we trust Christ, we are made righteous, but that is not the end of the story. His righteousness enables us to live in cooperation with and obedience to God. It is not a life of self righteousness but rather a transformed life that is empowered by the Spirit of God and infused with the Word of God. It is allowing God to change us from the inside out and that will affect our thoughts, words, and actions. Add to this the elements of trust…childlike trust. Being confident and secure in God’s love and involvement in our life. Trusting Him for the strength, guidance, provision, and wisdom that we need on a daily basis.

But the promises of this passage will not be evident in my life if I choose to live my life simply by an outward performance of good works and fixing my eyes on people. If I am looking to others to give me all the answers and to instill in me confidence, security, assurance, and stability, then I am setting myself up for a huge fall that will eventually shake me to the very center of my being. I have lived that way and reaped the painful consequences. But things are changing as I dare to look into God’s Word, receive it as life altering truth, and take the conditions seriously.

Father, You are the One who has set my feet on solid rock and established my going. You are the One who will continue to develop my spiritual muscles which will enable me to walk, run, and fly with confidence and courage. Amen.