A Look at Psalm 119:36

Psalm 119:36 “Turn my heart toward Your statutes and not toward selfish gain.”
 

This is possibly the most powerful prayer in this entire Psalm. “Turn my heart toward You, and not toward me!”

Herein lies the battle of the ages: My will or God’s? My gain or God’s? The benefits of serving God are so tremendous that one could serve God for selfish gain. Ezekiel encountered this problem, “My people come to you, as they usually do, and sit before you and listen to your words, but they do not put them into practice. With their mouths they express devotion, but their hearts are greedy for unjust gain” Ezekiel 33:31.
 

Why do we seek God? Do we seek God so we can use God, to fulfill our own plans and desires, or do we seek God so God can use us to fulfill His? There is a world of difference between these two motives. Think of the error there is in seeking to gain from the One who gave His life for us. Jesus came to earth to empty Himself for you and me. 

To take advantage of what serving God means is error. The Christian is subject to many blessings. He works hard, she is honest, and they are loyal. These qualities alone, will bring blessing. To use those blessings for personal gain is a mistake. There is one reason for gain. It is so we can continue to meet the needs of others.
 

This life is not about selfish gain, it is about selfless devotion. The church of Laodicea focused on selfish gain. It had the nicest building in town, the sharpest people in town, and the latest programs available. It had everything... but Jesus. In Revelation 3:20, Jesus says. “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in…” Jesus was on the outside trying to get in to the Church, in to the hearts of His people.
 

I encourage you to take some time today to meditate on this verse. As you do, make David’s words your own: “Turn my heart from gain to God.”