By Rev. Ron Purkey
Guest Columnist

Read: Psalm 63:1-11

“O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is” (Psalm 63:1).

By Rev. Ron Purkey

Some Christians have learned little of a daily devotional life. What is the secret of victorious living was? There is no magic formula that can be pronounced. If any word could describe it, I would say surrender. The second word I would say would be devotion. Nothing can take the place of a daily devotional life with Christ. Your quiet time, your prayer time, the time you spend in the word, is absolutely essential for a happy Christian life. You cannot possibly be a happy, dynamic, and powerful Christian apart from a daily walk with Jesus. Let’s use David in the Old Testament as our example.

David’s experience in the dry, desolate wilderness without water prompts him to consider his thirst — that of his soul. What he truly thirsts for is not water but God. This thirst had been satisfied when he was able to gaze on the glory of God in his sanctuary, the tabernacle. But, in the wilderness, David longs for God’s glory (see Psalm 63:1-2).

Even in the wilderness, David finds satisfaction, joy and comfort in praising God. Better than life itself is the faithful love God demonstrates toward those who fear him. When you, like David, realize God’s faithfulness is more important than life-sustaining necessities such as food and water, you, too, will praise him with joyful lips. Such genuine worship will sustain you in your own wilderness experiences (see Psalm 63:3-5).

As David lay awake at night, he could have been consumed by his troubles. Instead, he disciplines himself to meditate on God, because he is his helper. God’s right hand — a metaphor for his sovereign power — supports David. David’s ponderings should make you ask where you focus during your times of suffering. To whom do you first turn for help? (see Psalm 63:6-8).

Even though David is chased from his throne he is certain his enemies would be defeated. This was not self-confidence but God-confidence. In spite of the fact a rebellion had taken his crown, David believes the state of affairs was temporary. Therefore, he would rejoice in God, knowing the liars who oppose him would not succeed. No matter the negative circumstances you face, put your confidence in the one whose love for you is “better than life” (see Psalm 63:9-11).

Jesus Christ is calling Christians today to cleansing, to dedication, to consecration and to full surrender. It will make the difference between success and failure in your spiritual life. It will make the difference between being helped and helping others. It will make a difference in your habits, in your prayer life, in your Bible reading, in your giving, in your testimony and in your church membership. This is the Christian hour of decision.

Read Ron Purkey’s Bible study outlines at www.rcpbibleoutlines.com free on the website. Purkey has been an ordained Baptist minister for 50 years.