Keep me from lying to myself. Give me the privilege of knowing your instructions. (Psalm 119.29, NLT)

I am ashamed of how often I lie to myself. In fact, whenever I think about it just how often I practice self-deceit I blush: “I’ll exercise in the morning” (lie); “I’ll pray about it later” (lie); “I’ll only have three Hershey kisses” (lie, lie, lie). I normally don’t do this intentionally, but self-deceit is part of my inherited human condition.

I need an intervention.

Enter God’s instructions. I know for many the word “instruction” is an offense. We don’t pay attention to them anymore unless necessity requires it. Perhaps we may pull up a YouTube “how-to” video in a pinch, but we want our life to be ordered in such a manner as to alleviate the need for instruction of any evident sort. We expect our “user interface” to be intuitive and self-guided. No direction required.

My heart requires instruction. Left to its own desires, my heart would engage all sort of harmful attitudes and behaviors. It is sad, but wholly true. So what does this “privilege of knowing” afford me?

A “gentle reply” is the best remedy for angry conversation.
My mind is best occupied with the things that are virtuous, lovely, and pure.
That my neighbor is not a nuisance but an opportunity to share God’s love.
My stuff will decay and disappear, so I can share my treasure here freely and without fear.
That my wicked-bent heart/mind is rejuvenated and recreated by the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit when I worship.
And so much more.

What part of God’s instruction makes a difference in your life?