God intends for our belief and behavior to work in tandem. Saying we believe God without any evidence of change in our behavior demonstrates either false belief or grossly immature discipleship. Giving all attention to esoteric aspects of faith without a heart like God’s for all people everywhere demonstrates either an unconverted soul or a legalistic bent that can never be good enough.

Take a look at the verses above and notice how King Solomon talks about our relationship with God in terms of lifestyle. This is not mere intellectual assent to a good way of thinking. This is about clothing ourselves with God’s values, exalting his nature and character, and blessing everyone we meet.

Verse 16 affirms how Solomon started. He began his journey on the right foot. He knew that ultimate success for him and his people depended on his staying on God’s path. Sadly, his desire for extravagance in all things led him off the path and far away from God’s intentions.

Verse 27 is a request by Solomon for God to teach all people “the good way they should walk in.” People whose lives have been changed by God change the way they live. They are fruitful and effective. They give evidence of changed hearts and minds.

Verses 30 and 31 are Solomon’s request for God to forgive people when they sin. He asks God to turn people back onto the path God laid out for them when they inevitably wander away.

Walk with God by beginning well. Stay on God’s path. Learn his will and ways. Know the blessings of obedience. Avoid the unforced errors of wandering from his best gifts. Seek forgiveness when you are wrong. Begin again more intelligently. Learn God’s next lessons along the pathway home to his house.

There are echoes of Psalm 23 in this passage. The model prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount amplifies Solomon’s prayer here. The combination of lifestyle and mindset are found in James 2.

Belief and behavior operating in tandem under God’s leadership, in his strength, to help everyone see how good he is is the very purpose of life. Know God and make him known. Live what you say you believe. Join God in the work he is doing to restore this world to the goodness his heart forever intends.

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I will walk in all of his ways.

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Our Father, show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. Teach me today more of your will, more of your way. Direct my steps, my thoughts, my words. Empower me to live the life of your dreams for me. Keep me on the right path all of my days. Amen.