In what ways can we "dwell in the land" spiritually today? Living the Command: “Dwell in the Land” Psalm 37:3 says, “Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness.” In David’s day this pointed to God’s literal covenant gift of Canaan. Yet the command carries enduring, Spirit-filled implications for believers in every age. What “the Land” Represents for Us • A place of God’s promised provision (Philippians 4:19) • The sphere of His rule—life under the King’s authority (Matthew 6:10) • A settled inheritance already secured in Christ (Ephesians 1:11; 1 Peter 1:4) • Daily rest from striving, anchored in His finished work (Hebrews 4:9-10) New-Covenant Parallels • John 15:4—“Remain in Me, and I will remain in you.” Abiding in Christ is the New-Testament equivalent of staying in the land. • Ephesians 2:6—We are “seated…with Him in the heavenly realms,” enjoying covenant territory even while our feet are on earth. • Colossians 2:6-7—“So then, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him…” Practical Ways to “Dwell in the Land” Today • Feed on His faithfulness – Start and end each day with Scripture; let His promises frame your thinking (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:2-3). – Keep a record of answered prayer and providence to reinforce trust. • Cultivate covenant obedience – Choose righteousness in daily decisions, reflecting kingdom values at work, school, home (1 John 2:3-6). – Practice integrity with finances, relationships, and words—“do good” as Psalm 37:3 pairs with dwelling. • Live in worshipful contentment – Reject envy of “evildoers” (Psalm 37:1); celebrate God’s portion for you (Hebrews 13:5). – Thank God aloud for ordinary gifts—meals, friendships, sunsets—signposts of the land’s goodness. • Engage the local church community – Commit to regular gathering (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Serve with your gifts, building up fellow citizens of the kingdom (1 Corinthians 12:4-7). • Walk by the Spirit – Yield moment-by-moment to His prompting (Galatians 5:16, 25). – Confess sin quickly, keeping fellowship unhindered (1 John 1:9). • Invest in kingdom mission – Share the gospel, bringing others into the inheritance (Matthew 28:19-20). – Support global outreach; the land’s borders expand as hearts bow to Christ (Acts 1:8). Encouragement for the Journey Psalm 37 assures us that while the wicked fade “like grass” (v.2), those who trust the Lord “will inherit the land” (v.9). Hold the title deed by faith today, and one day you will walk its sidewalks made new (Revelation 21:1-3). Until then, keep dwelling—settled, fruitful, and faithful—right where God has planted you. |
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