“After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’” Acts 13:22
There are no words I would rather hear from the Lord than “She is a woman after my own heart; she will do everything I want her to do.”
I sought to understand how David did this. How was he able to do everything God wanted him to do? How did he know and do God’s will? How was he so different than others that God would say such a beautiful thing about him?
The answer is found in Psalm 119. David repeatedly proclaims how much he loves God’s Word. Here are a few important verses, but I urge you to read the entire Psalm HERE. Notice that this man whom God called “a man after my own heart” loved and cherished God’s Holy Word.
“I will speak of your statutes before kings
and will not be put to shame,
for I delight in your commands
because I love them.” Psalm 119:46-47
I think David is saying, “I will not be intimidated by anyone’s status. I will speak God’s Truth.”
“The law from your mouth is more precious to me
than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.” vs. 72
If we want to be a woman (or man) “after God’s own heart”, we must be a lover of His Word. This is how we will do “everything He wants us to do.” There is no other way.
New Age-influenced “Bible teachers” have taught a way to pray called contemplative prayer. This method teaches Christians to have a conversation or dialog with God. They say, “God said this. I said that. Then God said…” etc.
There is nothing in the Bible to back this up. This is New Age mysticism. The Bible is our treasure. Why must we always search for something more? (Read a brief description of contemplative prayer HERE, or an in-depth description HERE.)
If we want to know God’s will, we must read and study the Word of God: the Bible. Then we must obey what it says.
This may not always be easy. Social pressure to go along with the world is tremendous. But the person who does God’s will is the person who knows His Word and obeys it.
“The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.” Psalm 19:7
This verse tells me that God’s Word can and should be trusted. It will make even the simple person wise. But contemplative prayer seeks more than what is written in God’s Word. The person engaging in contemplative prayer seeks a supernatural experience. But God’s Word is sufficient.
“Never take your word of truth from my mouth,
for I have put my hope in your laws.” Psalm 119:43 NIV
“Indignation grips me because of the wicked,
who have forsaken your law.” vs.53
“I am your servant; give me discernment
that I may understand your statutes.” vs. 125
“Streams of tears flow from my eyes,
for your law is not obeyed.” vs. 136
“My zeal wears me out,
for my enemies ignore your words.” vs. 139
These proclamations by David reveal his heart, his love for, and his respect for God’s Word. Remember, it is God’s Word that equips you for service.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (emphasis mine)
In His Love, Cindy
Do you want to know more about Jesus? See my page Who Is Jesus?
Pray for Israel
All Scripture references are NIV.
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