Scripture:
Psalm 26:1 and 26:4-5
Vindicate me, O Lord, for I have walked in my integrity, and I have trusted in the Lord without wavering…….. I do not sit with men of falsehood, nor do I consort with hypocrites.
I hate the assembly of evildoers, and I will not sit with the wicked.
Observation:
David states that he has walked in faith. This connotates action on the part of a believer. David didn’t just believe but his belief caused certain, deliberate actions. David had been taught in faith and now his actions are matching his belief. Having stated the fact that he is faithful to God, David now describes several ways that his life demonstrates his faith. He states his faith not what he does but by who he does not associate with.
Application:
I should choose and value my relationships. I have a little control over some of the people I meet. For example, when I go to the grocery store, a Starbucks, airport, the beach or at even at work I come across people of all ages, races and religions. Even though I should be cordial and Christian, I do not have to “sit” or associate with these people on a regular basis. I should have a heavenly perspective when it comes to my friends and associations. That heavenly perspective extends beyond people and includes social media, where I spend my time, what I watch on television, etc.
There is a saying that we are known by the company we keep. David knew this to be true over 2000 years ago and it still applies today.
Prayer:
Give me the wisdom to identify non spiritual threats in my life that are not good influences. Provide me the courage to remove them from my life if my association with them reflects poorly on you.