In with the Old, in with the New

(Psa 84:12 KJV)  O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.

(Proverbs 24 also read)

One of the great joys of reading through the entire Bible is the balance it gives in understanding God and how He works with us.  For years I have listened to preachers and theologians talk about how the Old Testament is based on the law and works while the New Testament is all about grace.  I have heard Paul quoted as he warns against the law.  I see what Paul says.  I am aware of the danger he is warning against.  My problem is that the interpretation put on his words does not fit in with what I am reading in the Old Testament.

Here is just one example.  Notice that the sons of Korah, who wrote this Psalm, did not say, “Blessed is the man who perfectly obeys the law.”  That would be what we are lead to expect.  No.  We are “blessed” (835) when we “trust” (982) in God.  No Jew would say that it is not important to live a life of righteousness.  The previous verse points out we are to walk uprightly or with integrity.  The previous verse also talks about the grace of God and here we have the idea of trust or faith.  

So?  Get used to it.  The Bible is not a theological tract designed to agree with traditions of our modern elders.  It is the word of God to be read, wrestled with and followed.  As the old song says, “Trust and obey.”