Happy and Blessed - Pt. 2

Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. Oh that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments. I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous rules. I will keep your statutes; do not utterly forsake me! (Psalm 119:1-8 ESV).

A friend of mine is a gourmet coffee barista. For those, like me, who may not thnk such a title exists, I can assure you, some folks are very serious about their coffee. He has made me a cup of coffee beginning with roasting the beans to the finish brewing, and I must admit it did taste incredible. However, I’m more of a pop-a-pod in the Keurig kind of guy. I do remember a time when the only means of making coffee was with a stovetop percolator like the one I’ve pictured. This model is actually a Wearever manufactured in the early 1950’s. The interesting thing is that it came with an instruction manual when bought new.

I never gave it any thought and simply put some coffee into the basket, added water, and turned the heat on until it looked done. However the instructions say: “The key to making decent coffee with a stove top percolator is to raise the temperature of the water slowly, and then reduce the heat once the pot starts perking.” Perhaps the reason I’m not a barista is because I never read the instructions! Instructions are always important whether it’s a new coffee pot, a power tool, or a car. It always makes sense to follow the maker’s instructions. They tell you what you need to know about using the new product. Similarly, we need to follow our Maker’s instructions. They are essential for living life to the fullest, as God intends for us.

 

As Psalm 119 begins, it points out that people who follow God’s way are blessed and blameless. But we need to clarify two things. First, in giving his Word, God tells us, “This is how I created you to live. When you live according to my instructions, you will be blessed.” This does not mean everything will be easy, but, whatever the circumstances, your life with God and others will flourish because you aim to honor and obey God. Second, we must consider the meaning of blameless. Blameless does not mean “perfect.” Everyone sins, falling short of God’s righteousness and perfection (cf. Romans 3:23). But all who are redeemed by Christ, the Savior, are declared righteous by God. When we believe in Christ as our Savior, we long to be like him, to live God’s way. That brings happiness.