“I have declared my ways, and You answered me; Teach me Your statutes. Make me understand the way of Your precepts; So shall I meditate on Your wondrous works. My soul melts from heaviness; Strengthen me according to Your word. Remove from me the way of lying, and grant me Your law graciously.” (Psalm 119:26-29)

 The Psalmist begins by confessing his sins to God, believing God has heard and cleansed. He then goes on to ask God to teach him, using language such as, “teach me,” “make me understand,” and “strengthen me.” On display here is a teachable spirit. He wanted to know more about God’s ways and His statutes, understanding strength is found in them. However, there is a pre-requisite to a teachable spirit; a repentant spirit. Before any blessings from God’s teachings could be experienced, his sin needed to be reconciled. God is the foremost teacher. His Word is the primary source of our instruction. His children need to be taught by Him, led by Him, encouraged by Him, and strengthened by Him. Each one needs to seek Him through a teachable spirit and repentant heart.

Reflection Questions:

To be teachable means to have the capacity to receive instruction. Would you say that you are in the best position to receive instruction from God? If not, what is in the way?

Is there a time in your spiritual walk with the Lord that you know for a fact you missed the opportunity to be involved in something He wanted you to do? What did you learn? Are you more teachable as a result?