Join with me

RE Verse reading–Psalm 116:12-19, Mark 8:34-37, 2 Timothy 1:8-12 (day three)  “I shall pay my vows to the Lord, Oh may it be in the presence of His people”  (116:14)  The writer of Psalm 116 (some scholars think it is Hezekiah–Isaiah 38) is thinking about ways to express gratitude to God. ” What should I render to the Lord for all His benefits toward me?”  Careful reflection is required. (See yesterday’s blog)  Deliberate action is also required.  Rather than just feel grateful, we are to act!  One resolution the psalmist reaches involves connecting and communicating with the people of God.  It isn’t enough to keep our promises, we are to do it in company with those who have made similar promises. (more later on witness to outsiders)  Our generation is experiencing a great defection from church–a loss of loyalty to God’s people.  Real gratitude to God must be expressed in public identification with these people.  “Therefore do not be ashamed. . .but join with me in suffering”  (2 Timothy 1:8)