Scripture for Today:  Psalms 119:75  “I know, Lord, that Your laws are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.”

I am listening to the piano tuner as I write this.  It is so annoying to hear him hit the same note over and over until it is tuned correctly.  Just when I think I can relax again, he goes on to the next note.  It is as excruciating to me as nails on a chalk board.  But I know the sound will be beautiful when he is finished.  I will be able to make music without cringing at the discordant sound.

Our verse for today speaks about affliction at the hands of the Lord.  His intent is to correct us when we stray from what is right.  David understands that God’s laws are righteous and that correction needs to come from His hands.  We are told in Hebrews 12:6 that the Lord disciplines those He loves.

The piano tuner needs to use his tools to tighten the strings inside.  He does it to correct the sound.  He knows just how much tightening is needed to produce beautiful music.  In the same way, the Lord uses what is hurtful and negative to fine tune me.  There are plenty of times I am “out of tune” with God’s standards of righteousness.  When I am disobedient I do not sound so good.  I may not even notice how discordant I have become.  But when He corrects me I can again make beautiful music that honors Him!

I love these lyrics from an old hymn: “Tune my heart to sing Thy grace, Streams of mercy never ceasing, call for songs of loudest praise.”

Lord, make me in tune with You and Your righteousness.