Psalms 101:2 (HCSB)
[2] I will pay attention to the way of integrity.
When will You come to me?
I will live with integrity of heart in my house.
David may have written this psalm early in his reign as king as he set down the standards he wanted to follow. We certainly know he did not always walk this way and actually strayed pretty far off the way of integrity at one point. One of the incredible attributes of David was that he knew that he could not lead a life of integrity on his own (that’s what got him in trouble with Bathsheba). For most of his life, he knew he needed God’s help to stay on the right path. We too can claim these words and lead blameless lives if we avoid (1) looking at wickedness ("I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar," 101:3 ), (2) evil thoughts ("perverse ideas," 101:4 ), (3) slander ( 101:5 ), and (4) pride ( 101:5 ). While avoiding these wrongs, we must also let God’s Word show us the standards by which to live.
Psalms 101:6 (HCSB)
[6] My eyes favor the faithful of the land
so that they may sit down with me.
The one who follows the way of integrity
may serve me.
David said that his “eyes favor the faithful.” In other words, he would choose as models and as friends those who were godly and truthful. It really does make a difference who you associate with or hang out with. The old saying “garbage in, garbage out” is very true. The people we hang out with can have a profound influence on our life. We need to make sure we keep our eyes on those who are faithful to God and His Word. I have found out the hard way over the years that my Christian brothers and sisters consistently built me up when I needed it most while the non-Christian friends only brought me down to their level. I would rather be with men and women of integrity that I know are in God’s Word because when bad times come, they can encourage you with solid Biblical foundations; however, what would a non-Christian have to offer in encouragement? If they don’t believe in Jesus Christ then what hope do they have? If they have no hope, how can they possibly provide hope to you?
Blessings,
Chris
