Worthy of Trust

Scripture:
Blessed is the one
    who trusts in the Lord,
who does not look to the proud,
    to those who turn aside to false gods.
Psalm 40:4

Observation: The psalmist (identified as David) makes an interesting connection between faithful believers and those who worship false gods/idols, and that is the additional introduction of a liaison. Not only shouldn't we ourselves look to false gods, but we must not place our faith and trust in others who are proud, and whom themselves turn to false gods.

Application: This teaching from David presents a new level of accountability for us. This means that we need to be very, very careful in whom we place our trust - in whom we decide to promote to positions of honor in our lives. It isn't enough that we guard against making other people and things idols, we must also consider what those people we trust are doing if we ourselves wish to be blessed.

Of course, there is only one true way to do this: To place only Jesus in in that honored position whom we look to for guidance in our lives! I am fascinated how the entire bible reading today relates to this. In Deuteronomy 31, we see God commissioning Joshua to lead Israel into the promised land, but immediately saying the people will turn away. In 1 Corinthians, Paul is instructing the church to not become divided by saying that some follow his teachings, others Apollos, other Cephas.

How am I to be blessed? By placing my trust only in Jesus. I must not elevate others to positions of high honor, for even if they don't fail me they will likely fail God in some manner. Instead, I must honor the one who said, "Here I am, I have come - it is written about me in the scroll. I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart." (Psalm 40:7-8)

Prayer: Lord, I look to you for guidance in my life. May I stop seeking advice about how to work through challenges in all areas of my life - especially here at work - and instead simply put my trust in you, Jesus. May I elevate you to the position of honor in my life, as the only person worthy of providing guidance, and the only one worthy of my trust.