What does it mean to "keep His way" in Psalm 37:34? Key verse – Psalm 37:34 “Wait for the LORD and keep His way, and He will raise you up to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, you will see it.” (Psalm 37:34) What “keep His way” means • Guard, obey, and cling to the revealed path of the Lord (Hebrew shamar derek: to watch over and preserve His path). • Live in continual, practical obedience to God’s commands—nothing less than wholehearted conformity to Scripture (Deuteronomy 5:32–33; Joshua 1:7–8). • Remain loyal when evil seems to prosper, refusing to deviate or compromise (Psalm 37:7–9). • Persevere in righteousness until God’s promised vindication arrives (Galatians 6:9; James 1:12). Key characteristics of one who keeps His way • Trusts the Lord instead of fretting over evildoers (Psalm 37:3–8). • Delights in His Word and meditates on it day and night (Psalm 1:2; John 14:23). • Walks in integrity, doing good and turning from evil (Psalm 34:14; 1 Peter 3:11–12). • Waits patiently, believing God’s timing is perfect (Isaiah 40:31). • Depends on the Spirit’s power, not personal strength (Romans 8:13–14; Galatians 5:16). Practical ways to keep His way today – Set aside daily, unhurried time in Scripture; let God’s precepts shape every decision (Psalm 119:105). – Pray for grace to obey immediately and joyfully (Psalm 119:32). – Choose companions who reinforce godly living (Proverbs 13:20; 1 Corinthians 15:33). – Reject envy of the wicked’s apparent success; focus on eternal reward (Psalm 73:16–17). – Serve others sacrificially, imitating Christ’s example (John 13:14–17; Ephesians 5:1–2). Blessings promised to those who keep His way (Psalm 37 and beyond) • Divine exaltation: “He will raise you up to inherit the land” (v. 34). • Security and provision: “The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever” (v. 29). • Visible vindication over the wicked (vv. 34, 38). • Guidance and stability: “The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD” (v. 23). • Peace that endures (Isaiah 32:17; Philippians 4:7). Contrast: the fate of those who forsake His way • “Yet a little while, and the wicked will be no more” (Psalm 37:10). • “Those who are cursed by Him will be cut off” (v. 22). • “Transgressors will altogether be destroyed” (v. 38). Summary To “keep His way” is to steadfastly guard, obey, and walk in the Lord’s revealed path, trusting His timing and promises. Such perseverance secures lasting blessing and ultimate vindication, even as the wicked fade away. |
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