“I will pursue Your commands, for You expand my understanding.”-Psalm 119:32
What are some important “pursuits” in your life? What are some goals you are working toward? Perhaps you think of something with your career? You might think of a future spouse or family. Maybe you have a dream that’s been on your heart for some time. It could be that you don’t think of anything you’re truly pursuing right now. We know this — in this life there are many things we can pursue. Certainly it isn’t a bad thing to have something in front of us, some good goals up ahead that we are working toward accomplishing. Let’s just be reminded and never forget that of all the pursuits before us, none is more important than running after God and His ways!
Let’s reread Psalm 119:32 which says, “I will pursue Your commands, for You expand my understanding.” The Psalmist came to understand by God’s revelation that pursuing, or running after, God’s commands was top-notch of all pursuits. This is evidenced by all of Psalm 119 which expresses, in a variety of ways, the deep value of God’s commands. Why did the Psalmist decide to pursue, to run after God’s commands? Because he came to realize that through them God expanded his understanding. It’s also accurately translated, “…for You will enlarge my heart.” So as we run after, as we pursue God’s ways, His truth, His commands, God does something invaluable in us: He grows our heart for what matters! He expands our comprehension of truth.
What does pursuing God and His commands look like? It takes intentional effort and discipline. To pursue something means to chase after it or to run after it. Pursuing and running takes focused energy. God’s Word has been given to us by God Himself. What a truly remarkable gift the Bible is! It is inspired by God, and He uses it to teach us what’s right and wrong. He corrects us through it. As we search it, He shows us what to do and which way to turn. He equips His people for good works as we read it and surrender to His ways! See 2 Timothy 3:16.
So, may we remember the most important pursuit — chasing after God and His ways! Let’s meditate on His Word, memorize it, enjoy it, cherish it, and grow from being in it. As we do, we are reminded that He has so lovingly pursued us first and has made a way for us to have life eternally through Christ!
Godspeed, friends!
-Scott