Psalm 119 Beth

Our new pastor spoke on Psalm 119: 9-16. He was able to build an 8 point message out of these verses on how to keep your house clean (spiritually speaking). Since he has a PHD I will let him do the talking:
1. Listen
2. Seek
3. Treasure
4. Learn
5. Speak
6. Rejoice
7. Meditate
8. Remember

My take:

Listen to God. Sound easy? So often I get caught up with the daily grind, the constant noise (sometimes literally) and the stuff, that I sraight up forget (intentionally and unintentionally) to listen to God. Lately it seems like a trend. But why? Why do I let these constant distractions consume my day-to-day. Truth time...pause...here goes nothin.
Maybe its simply that I'm scared of what God wants to say. I'm scared to hear that my idea of happiness in life may not be what he considers to be happiness. Or that my 'plan' is so far from what He desires. But, when I drown Him out with a sea of noise with thoughts of more degrees, higher status in the world, or just daily garbage it's easier for me to do what I want. But when has it ever been about me? Really? Who am I? God really doesn't care about my status here on earth. So why should I?
What do I want? Church answer: To further God's Kingdom. My Answer: To do something Bigger than myself, truly impact the lives of a ton of people. I have had this innate desire since I was a teen to do this. But maybe these two answers can come together in some way. I am finally at the point where letting go of my dreams to seek what He has planned for me is a good idea. How novel? God has plans more satisfying than anything I can possibly conjure up on my own down here on earth. I believe that now! And my prayer is that God will use me how He has always desired and more so that I can follow that plan without question! Kate, I know you have been struggling with the same stuff. God is just priming the pump for us. And I know youre feeling the same way. We finally have to say enough of us and all of God! Amen.
I could go thru all 8 of pastor's points but I will save time and just tell you that they are all right on. In order to remain steadfast in my faith and pure at heart I must first and foremost listen to my Father. No excuses. Taking it a practical step further, be an active listener by seeking Him. Treasure Him (soften me up God)! Plug back in and learn His Word. Not only learn His Word but speak it to others (pray for me there that I may have opportunities with my students). Rejoice always for He is good- All the time! Meditate (fill myself up rather than let everything release) and Remember Him.
8 Easy steps for a road to a closer relationship with Christ...Sign Me up.

All my love.

Daniel