How can we avoid "turning away" from God's decrees in modern society? Setting the Foundation Psalm 119:102 — “I have not departed from Your ordinances, for You Yourself have taught me.” Why Turning Away Is Tempting Today • Constant media voices redefining right and wrong • Social pressure to be “tolerant” of sin (2 Timothy 3:1–5) • Cultural celebration of self over submission (Judges 21:25) • Busy schedules that crowd out Scripture and prayer Anchoring Our Hearts in the Word • Treat Scripture as the final, literal authority (2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Memorize key passages that confront today’s lies (Psalm 119:11). • Read entire books, not random verses, to grasp God’s full counsel (Acts 20:27). Daily Practices That Keep Us on Course 1. First-fruits time: open the Bible before you open your phone (Mark 1:35). 2. Note-taking: write how the text corrects or affirms your thinking (James 1:22–25). 3. Pray the verse back to God: “Lord, teach me so I won’t depart.” 4. End each day with a quick heart audit: “Did I sway from Your decrees?” (Psalm 139:23–24). Guarding Our Minds from Cultural Drift • Filter entertainment through Philippians 4:8. • Limit influencers who normalize sin (Proverbs 13:20). • Replace empty scrolling with intentional study plans—read a psalm at every lunch break. Building Accountability and Community • Join a small group that studies the Word, not opinions (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Invite one trusted friend to ask weekly, “Are you keeping to the path?” • Serve together; obedience deepens when faith is active (James 2:17). Remembering the Consequences • Turning aside invites discipline (Deuteronomy 8:19–20). • Remaining faithful brings blessing and stability (Joshua 1:7–8; Psalm 1:1–3). • God’s decrees are life, not chains (John 6:68). Living the Verse Out Loud • Speak Scripture when decisions arise—let the Word be the loudest voice. • Model joyful obedience for family, coworkers, and neighbors (Matthew 5:16). • Keep Psalm 119:102 visible—phone lock screen, desk card, fridge magnet—as a constant reminder that the One who teaches us keeps us from turning away. |
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