by Dr. Al Hearne II 

 

This fifteenth shore excursion explores our commitment to walking in God's truth and understanding His way.

 

Shore Excursion 15 - Teach Me Your Way, O Lord

Psalm 86:11, "Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name."

Psalm 86 is a heartfelt prayer by King David, seeking God's guidance, mercy, and strength. In verse 11, he asks for God to "teach" him His way, not only to understand it intellectually but so that he might live it out fully. David's request reflects a deep desire for obedience rooted in genuine reverence for God. He knows that to walk in God's truth, he must first learn God's way, and he recognizes his need for a heart wholly devoted to the Lord.

The phrase "unite my heart to fear your name" is a powerful expression of David's longing for spiritual integrity. He understands that walking in God's truth requires a heart undivided by conflicting loyalties or distractions. David's plea is not merely for understanding but for transformation, a heart fully aligned with God's purposes and wholly devoted to revering His name. This reverence shapes every aspect of his life, guiding his actions, thoughts, and attitudes toward true worship.

 

What does this mean for us today?

In today's fast-paced and often distracting world, Psalm 86:11 calls us to seek God's guidance and live with undivided devotion to His truth. When we ask God to teach us His way, we open our hearts to be shaped and directed by His wisdom. This path is not always easy, as it requires us to set aside personal ambitions, distractions, or competing priorities. To walk in God's truth, we must pursue a life of integrity, seeking a heart united in devotion to the Lord. Embracing God's way allows us to experience the fullness of His presence, guiding us in every decision, interaction, and step of faith.

 

Reflective Practice

In what areas do you feel divided or distracted from fully embracing God's truth?

How can you cultivate a more unified heart devoted to walking in God's way?

Are there specific practices or habits that might help you stay grounded in God's truth amid life's distractions?

 

Concluding Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of Your Word and Your unchanging truth. Teach us Your way so we may walk in it with whole and undivided hearts. Unite our hearts to fear Your name, setting aside anything that distracts us from living fully for You. Guide us to be steadfast in our commitment to Your truth, honoring You in all we do. In Jesus' name, Amen.

 

[image, Unite My Heart, was created by DALL·E.]