Psalm 15-- Changing the Rules in the Middle of the Game

It was a tough-fought game as my daughter's volleyball team battled one of the top teams in their league. The score was very close and the game nearing completion when the referee called an infraction on the opponents. According to the league's rules, our girls should have been given a point and possession of the ball. Instead, the ref gave the team a warning and allowed them to continue to serve. This gave them the advantage and they went on to win. Obviously, we were very frustrated because the rules were changed in the middle of the game. After all, you decide on rules ahead of time so that the game can be played smoothly and everyone knows what is expected. Most people go through life without determining their rules or values ahead of time. Like that referee, they change their position and response to fit their immediate circumstances rather than having a preset value system that does not change. Even Christians are guilty of doing this. God says in Psalm 15 that if we want to have an intimate, vibrant relationship with Him, then there are some rules or values that we need to hold to regardless of our circumstances (v1). There are three characteristics of the person who follows these values (v2). First, they "walk uprightly." They live a consistent, godly life. This is demonstrated by how they view sin and how they keep their word (v4). Second, they work "righteousness." This is demonstrated by how they treat others (v3), handle conflict (v3), and avoid taking advantage of people when their position or finances would allow them to do so (v5). Third, this person "speaks the truth in his heart." What is spoken in the heart eventually is spoken with the lips. This person doesn't backbite others (v3). These characteristics or values are reflected in the person's lifestyle. The person determined ahead of time to live like this--and not to change the rules in the middle of the game. "He who does these things shall never be moved" (v5). Consistency is pretty important in sports, but it is vital to living a God-honoring life.
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Frank Banfill is an author, international speaker, and president of MaxPoint Ministries, whose purpose is to help individuals, churches and ministries reach their full potential. Please forward this blog to your family & friends. Not a subscriber? Sign up now at www.FranksBibleBlog.com. If you would like to share a comment about today's blog, you may do so at http://www.maxpoint.org/maxpoint/message_board.