Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble. Psalm 119:165
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom, [and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God.] Colossians 3:16
Wouldn’t it be great to never stumble? There is a version of Tai chi called “Tai Chi for Better Balance.” It’s a series of moves designed to be done slowly that takes some time to learn. Once you have learned the movements, practicing them regularly does improve your balance. Result: Better balance, safer walking without stumbling and no falls! Following the principles of Tai chi leads to peace in the sense of not worrying about stumbling or falling.
In the same manner the Psalmist who wrote Psalm 119 praises God’s laws and the wisdom behind those law. He clearly expresses his appreciation for the law that may seem severe, but also shows the way for God’s people to live. Learning the law, loving it in the Psalmist words, enables God’s people to have peace.
In the same way we can let Christ’s word dwell in us. That means we first have to read, be taught and listen to the Word. We are to teach each other, and even admonish each other, gently and in peace. Then we can sing our gratitude to God for His guidance and support and salvation in all of our lives.
Spirit of truth, your teachings fill us, surround us, and nourish us all our days. Gracious God, thank you for writing your law in our hearts. We seek to love your truth, and to share it with one another with the wisdom and gentleness that can come only from you. We pray, in Jesus’ name. Amen
Chris Gabel