Certain positions come with criteria. For example, no one can be a pilot without knowing how to fly a plane. No one can be a doctor without excelling in medical school. Or imagine a lawyer who is unfamiliar with the law. Criteria exist for a reason. It provides a clear understanding of what is required of a person in any given circumstance. A life with God also has its criteria. Many have been convinced that it means perfection, never making a mistake or just being a “good” person.
King David also wanted to know what the criteria were, and in the book of Psalms, we get a look at the answer:
“Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle?
Who may dwell in Your holy hill?
He who walks uprightly,
And works righteousness,
And speaks the truth in his heart;
He who does not backbite with his tongue,
Nor does evil to his neighbor,
Nor does he take up a reproach against his friend;”
Psalms 15: 1-3
A person who remains in the presence of God is like the one described in these verses. He walks upright, striving to please God in his every action, and he only lives in truth. In a world filled with so many eager to backstab, gossip, and lie, those who walk with God learn to walk in truth and integrity and live to do no evil toward their neighbor. It seems so simple, but if we meditate deeply, this criteria is not always easy to follow. However, that is where the Spirit of God comes in to help us. May God have mercy on us and help us to remain in His presence.
May the God of the Bible bless you!
Bishop Bira Joshua
