Order My Steps #2

Saturday, July 16, 2022

“Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me” (Psalm 119:133 KJV).

May we share the Psalmist’s wish!

The term “order” in today’s Scripture suggests the believer is like a soldier receiving directions from his commanding officer. Where is he to go? What provisions will he be given? When should he move? What should he do when he arrives at his destination? His superior provides him with these details. Of course, as with any conflict, the soldier must also be vigilant regarding opposition and the tactics his adversary wishes to use to gain the advantage. As a simple illustration, think of the potency of land mines. These explosive devices, hidden on or under the ground, inflict great injury or even death upon any unfortunate soul who encounters them. Nevertheless, if the soldier is careful where he places his feet, he can successfully negotiate the mine field and proceed to fulfilling his commander’s instructions.

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:8-10). Now that we have trusted Jesus Christ as our personal Saviour, He has laid out a path for us to follow. Here is the “walk,” the daily conduct, of the believer. We are “created in Christ Jesus unto [objective, target, intention] good works.” Obviously, Father God is the Creator, and He has made us “new creatures in Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:17). We have been given a new nature in Christ: here is our new position, as opposed to being “in Adam” (our former status).

Whatever resources we have in the Lord Jesus Christ, these are our supplies we need to reach the goal of “good works.” Like the aforementioned soldier, however, we had better be cautious as we watch out for hazards along the route we are taking. Sin is ever present (the “land mines” are aplenty), and iniquity will have dominion over us the moment we forget our Master’s assignment given us….