Psalm 112 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 112 on biblegateway.com
Verse 1Praise the Lord! Happy are those who fear the Lord, who greatly delight in his commandments.
Verse 2Their descendants will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.
Verse 3Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever.
Verse 4They rise in the darkness as a light for the upright; they are gracious, merciful, and righteous.
Verse 5It is well with those who deal generously and lend, who conduct their affairs with justice.
Verse 6For the righteous will never be moved; they will be remembered forever.
Verse 7They are not afraid of evil tidings; their hearts are firm, secure in the Lord.
Verse 8Their hearts are steady, they will not be afraid; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes.
Verse 9They have distributed freely, they have given to the poor; their righteousness endures forever; their horn is exalted in honor.
Verse 10The wicked see it and are angry; they gnash their teeth and melt away; the desire of the wicked comes to nothing.
Devotion
Psalm 112 is filled with teachings on how to live a good life. Happiness follows those who delight in the commandments of the Lord. Their hearts are steady and firm, and they act in ways that are gracious and merciful. Accounts of their generosity and justice in dealing with others rise up to their honor even after they pass. Though wickedness exists, it does not cause lasting harm in a society where people fear and love the Lord.
However, we live in a world where evil does persist, and sometimes wickedness exists in us. We follow Jesus, an innocent man who was condemned and killed. Instead of questioning the accuracy of his portrayal, we work to create a world where his teachings are realized. Through faith and grace, may our hearts be steady as we praise the Lord who is making that vision a reality in us.
Prayer
Gracious Lord, may I delight in your commandments as you teach me to act with justice, mercy, and generosity. Amen.
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