Psalm 119:39
Turn away the reproach that I dread, for your rules are good.
The reproach that I do dread is that of my family, friends and neighbors, the reproach that I should dread is Yours. It is so easy to sit here in the absolute quiet of the pre-dawn and vow obedience to Your word. It is another thing entirely to obey when faced with a disapproval of others because I am trying to adhere to Your word. There is no difference between me and the drunk who vows he will never drink again while he is sitting in the chapel in the prison, but after release … Both of us need to throw ourselves upon Your mercy and cry, “Be gracious unto me, Lord, for I am a sinner.”
Voices Together is also available in weekly formats suitable for distribution within prisons and for insertion into church bulletins at the following locations: