Your statutes are wonderful; therefore I obey them. The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple. I open my mouth and pant, longing for your commands. Turn to me and have mercy on me, as you always do to those who love your name. Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me. Redeem me from human oppression, that I may obey your precepts. Make your face shine on your servant and teach me your decrees. Streams of tears flow from my eyes, for your law is not obeyed.
—Psalms 119:129-136

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Pe פ: Step by Step
By Jennifer Kane

Some nights feel sacred,
wrapped in the hush of the stars,
the sky bending close, as if heaven listens.
Some days stretch too long,
the road hot beneath my feet,
so much still undone, yet so much already finished by Your hand.

O God, You are my God.
I pant for You, like a traveler in dry lands.
Your word unfolds like morning light,
one step, then another,
leading me where I cannot see.

I don’t have to know the whole path—
only the next stone beneath my feet.
Do not let sin take hold of me,
do not let the weight of this world slow me down.
Redeem me, lift my face to Yours,
teach me to walk by Your mercy.

Step by step, breath by breath,
I will follow.
Not in great leaps, not in sudden answers,
but in quiet, steady trust.

And all of my days, You will lead me home.

~~~~~

Scriptures: Psalms 119:129-136

God’s Word is a guide, a light, and a source of strength. Walking in His truth is a journey, taken step by step, as we learn to obey, receive His wisdom, and seek His presence.

God’s Word is not just good; it is wonderful—miraculous in its truth and power. The psalmist delights in the testimonies of God, recognizing their supernatural nature. Charles Spurgeon notes that those who know God’s Word best are those who are most in awe of it.

To obey God’s Word, we must first see it as the treasure it is. When we view Scripture as precious and powerful, obedience follows naturally. The psalmist’s commitment to keeping God’s testimonies wasn’t just external—it was from the soul, a deep, abiding devotion.

God’s Word brings clarity and wisdom. Just as opening a door allows light to flood a dark room, receiving Scripture illuminates our hearts. Even the simple—the untrained, the humble—can gain wisdom through it.

Yet, understanding comes only when we allow God’s Word to enter our hearts. Many are surrounded by light but remain in darkness because they do not open themselves to it. The psalmist hungered for God’s Word, longing for it like a weary traveler longs for water.

The psalmist recognizes his need for God’s mercy and guidance. He asks not just for direction but for steady steps—firm footing in God’s truth. He knows that without divine help, sin can gain control over his life.

Many seek guidance from emotions, circumstances, or the opinions of others. But true direction comes from God’s Word. To walk in His way, we must submit our steps to Him, trusting that He will keep us from sin’s dominion.

The psalmist desires freedom—not for personal gain, but to serve God more fully. True liberty is found in obedience to Him. Even under trials or opposition, he seeks God’s presence above all else.

To have God’s face shine upon us is to experience His favor and blessing. Just as sunlight nourishes life, God’s favor strengthens and sustains His people. The psalmist longs to be taught by God, understanding that knowing His truth is the greatest blessing.

The psalmist’s love for God’s Word leads to deep sorrow when others reject it. His grief is not just for his own struggles but for a world that turns away from God.

Jesus wept over Jerusalem, lamenting its rejection of God’s truth (Matthew 23:37). A heart aligned with God’s will feels sorrow over sin—not only in our lives but in the lives of others. True spiritual maturity is marked by this compassion.

Walking with God is a process. As we take in His Word step by step, He transforms our hearts and directs our paths.

Pray for God to open your heart to His truth. Take one action each day to live out His Word—whether in obedience, seeking wisdom, or showing compassion. May His Word light your path, one step at a time.

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Lord God Almighty, Your Word is wonderful and full of wisdom. Open my heart to receive it, guide my steps in Your truth, and keep me from the dominion of sin. Help me to live in Your freedom, seek Your favor, and grieve over the brokenness of the world. Let me walk faithfully, step by step, in Your light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 28 2025