WALKING THE LAW OF THE HEART
“I will walk at liberty, because I seek Your precepts.” –Psalm 119:45
When Scripture refers to the law, it is speaking of much of the Old Testament. St. Paul argues strongly that grace is what is critical rather than the law. It’s not that the law does not matter; the law simply pales in comparison to the absolute greatness of Jesus Christ and the grace He offers to each of us. The law deals with the external but, as the Gospel says, God is concerned with the internals, our heart.
The law serves a good purpose, establishing the basis for a relationship between God and man. Jesus Himself said that He did not come to abolish the law, but to fulfill it (Mt 5:17). With the Psalmist, let us love the law of the Lord. Grace has not nullified the law; Jesus stated clearly that if we love Him, we will keep His commands, that is, His law (Jn 15:10).
Therefore, conform your hearts and minds to the grace of Jesus Christ. “Receive the Holy Spirit” (Jn 20:22), Who will guide you to the law of the Spirit (2 Cor 3:6). Obey His commands by the power of His sanctifying grace and by loving the Lord.
PRAYER: Father, enable me to walk in Your presence in my daily life (see Ps 27:13).
PROMISE: “If you give what you have as alms, all will be wiped clean for you.” –Lk 11:41
PRAISE: As difficult as it can be, Nathan is committed to living a holy lifestyle and so he no longer associates with the people who lead him into temptation to sin.