Safety Net
Don’t let me lust for evil things; don’t let me participate in acts of wickedness. Don’t let me share in the delicacies of those who do evil. Let the godly strike me! It will be a kindness! If they reprove me, it is soothing medicine. Don’t let me refuse it. But I am in constant prayer against the wicked and their deeds. Psalm 141:4-5
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This is a cry to God not only for an uncompromising faith but for accountability. David had tasted the bitter medicine of compromise and wanted nothing more to do with it. He knew that the enemy wanted to destroy him. He also knew that he had almost destroyed himself in the past when he let down his guard. David was willing to allow the godly to strike him if it would keep him from going down that road again.
Accountability between believers can provide a safety net. The act of answering to another holds you responsible for your actions. In the beginning stages of our faith, accountability is the “pause” button that makes us think before we act. But the dangers of temptation and compromise are not reserved only for new believers. Temptation can be as close as the computer in your home or a relationship at work, but God has promised to help you overcome temptation. Pray for strength to walk in integrity, and ask godly friends to help you walk in uncompromising faith. Ask them to believe in you, pray for you, and to speak the soothing medicine of truth. Then listen!
Prayers:
GOD, thank you for good friends who will speak the truth that is like soothing medicine. I don’t always want to hear what people have to say, Lord, but help me not to refuse it since it is good for me. I want my life to reflect uncompromising faith. Empower me by your Spirit to take active steps to live a life without compromise.
Quotes:
The best mirror is an old friend.
George Herbert (1593–1633)
The One Year Bible Readings for today are: Zechariah 2:1–3:10; Revelation 12:18–13:18; Psalm 141:1-10 and Proverbs 30:18-20.
