Today we continue with a series based on Psalm 27. If you haven’t already done so, I recommend listening to the first episode which covers some background thoughts on the context of the Psalm. 

Now, on to today’s verse. 

“Teach me your way, LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors.” (Psalm 27:11 NIV11)

Lead Me
The path is revealed by God, but it still our choice whether to walk it. The contrast is between the way of sin/death and the way of obedience/life. These exhaust our available options.

“The path of life (Ps 16:11; Prov 2:19; 5:6; 10:17; 15:24) corresponds with the path of integrity (Ps 27:11), the path of uprightness (Prov 2:13), the path of justice (Prov 2:8; 17:23; Isa 26:8; 40:14), the path of righteousness (Prov 8:20). Conversely, one is to spurn the path of evil (Ps 119:101) for it is a false path (119:104, 128). To follow the path of truth and life is to follow God’s own path (25:4, 10; 44:18 [H 19]; 119:115, where the word is a synonym for God’s Torah; Isa 2:3).” p161 Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament.

Oppressors
Pressure causes warping and hardening depending on the materials used. If we are strong in the Lord the pressure will confirm us in the right direction. If we are weak, the pressure may cause our faith to weaken.

What are the lessons from this verse? 

  1. What are you engaged in at the moment that is allowing God to teach you?
  2. Are you facing a choice between a straight and a warped path?
  3. What helps you to be stronger under pressure rather than weaker?

We will conclude today’s podcast with the song I wrote using the words of Psalm 27 verse 4.

Next week we will proceed to the next verse of the Psalm. In the meantime, please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community. 

Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org. 

If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org. 

Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review. 

“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11) 

God bless, Malcolm