We think of the Psalms as wonderful examples of praise to God and powerful expressions of the range of human emotions in relating to God. We probably don't think of them as instructional. But here's a catechism lesson!

1. What does David's question imply about God? … about what separates people from Him?



2. Why isn't David's answer about ritual purity or offering sacrifices?



3. Is the conduct David describes an unreachable ideal or a basic reflex that can be drilled into our lives with the help of the Holy Spirit?



4. What kinds of consistency are required by verse 2 over time? … between words and actions? … between the public and private? … between ends and means?



5. Does mere external conformity to moral standards cut it for David?



6. Could you do the things to be avoided (in v. 3) while remaining strictly truthful?



7. What does verse 4 tell you about being morally discerning?



8. In our interest-based economy, what kinds of "gouging" are still prohibited?



9. What does "stand firm forever" mean? How does it refer back to David's question?

Ask God for the strength of character to actually be what you claim—as a model to those who observe your life, and to prepare you to live in His presence.

¹Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord?
Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?

²Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right,
speaking the truth from sincere hearts.

³Those who refuse to gossip
or harm their neighbors
or speak evil of their friends.

⁴Those who despise flagrant sinners,
and honor the faithful followers of the Lord,
and keep their promises even when it hurts.

⁵Those who lend money without charging interest,
and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent.
Such people will stand firm forever.

Prayer for the Week

Help me, Lord, to empower my children by investing in their physical, emotional, and spiritual maturity.

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