Teach Me, Give Me, Lead Me – Psalm 119:33-40

In Moses’ message to Israel in Deuteronomy 30, Moses asserts that Israel will rebel against Yahweh to the extent that they are expelled from the land.  But he also assures Israel that they will be restored  back to the land when they return to God with all their heart.  The way this will come about?  “And the LORD your God will circumcise your heart and the heart of your offspring, so that you will love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul, that you may live” (Deuteronomy 30:6).

He   

Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end.  Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.  Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it.  Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain!  Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.  Confirm to your servant your promise, that you may be feared.  Turn away the reproach that I dread, for your rules are good.  Behold, I long for your precepts; in your righteousness give me life!  (Psalm 119:33-40 ESV)

The soul of the true believer understands clearly that even his or her willingness and ability to understand and keep God’s ways is dependent on God Himself doing a work in our hearts.  He must teach us, give us understanding, lead us in, incline our hearts toward, turn our eyes to and confirm to us His promises.  The longing we have is fulfilled by His power at work in our lives and yet we are responsible if we turn away from His word. We do not understand, but intrinsically accept, this mystery or paradox.