Hope And Instruction In The Way Of God.

HOPE AND INSTRUCTION IN THE WAY OF GOD.

Psalm 25:3-8.

The Psalmist’s plea not to be 'put to shame' (cf. Psalm 25:2) was not only personal, but also concerned the whole community of those who “wait” upon the LORD (PSALM 25:3). As such, it also concerned the honour of the God in whom we trust (cf. Joshua 7:8-9). The dependence and trust of the Psalmist is echoed in the expression, “for you are the God of my salvation: on you I wait all day long” (PSALM 25:5b).

To obey the LORD, we need to hear His instructions. Dependence upon God should lead to right living. This involves: following His ways, walking in His paths (PSALM 25:4; cf. Psalm 119:1); being led in His truth, and being taught by Him (PSALM 25:5a). The Father said, ‘This is my beloved Son: hear Him’ (cf. Mark 9:7).

On the positive side, we ask the LORD to REMEMBER His tender mercy and loving kindness (PSALM 25:6).

For the Psalmist, these had been demonstrated in ages past: perhaps referring to the LORD’s revelation to Moses, after the golden calf incident (cf. Exodus 34:6). We, too, can ‘count our blessings, name them one by one’ - acknowledging the mercy, compassion and faithfulness of the LORD (cf. Lamentations 3:22-23).

On the negative side, we ask the LORD effectively to FORGET our sins, and to look upon us in mercy as He would look on Christ (PSALM 25:7). That is what I see here, anyway: perfect substitution (cf. 2 Corinthians 5:21).

The psalmist appeals to the LORD’s mercy and goodness to blot out the sins of his youth, and “remember thou ME for your goodness’ sake” (PSALM 25:7; cf. Psalm 51:1).

It is because of the LORD’s goodness (cf. Psalm 145:9) that we can rely upon Him to teach us His way (PSALM 25:8). Jesus said, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life: no-one comes to the Father but by Me’ (cf. John 14:6).