thy Lovingkindness is before mine eyes... I have walked in thy truth

 

writing about Psalm 26:3 (KJV), a reflective commentary can focus on how God's love and truth work together in the believer's life.

"For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth."
Psalm 26:3 (KJV)

Walking in the Light of God's Love and Truth

David's words in Psalm 26:3 reveal a profound connection between God's love and God's truth. He does not say he walks in truth alone. First, he says, "thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes." God's love is what captures his attention, shapes his perspective, and gives him confidence to walk faithfully.

The word lovingkindness speaks of God's steadfast, covenant love. It is not a love that changes with human performance or circumstances. It is faithful, enduring, and rooted in God's character. David keeps this love "before" his eyes, meaning he continually remembers and meditates on it. When we lose sight of God's love, we are more likely to wander in fear, doubt, or self-reliance.

But God's love is never separated from His truth. After acknowledging God's lovingkindness, David declares, "I have walked in thy truth." God's truth provides the path upon which His love leads us. Truth teaches us who God is, reveals His will, and guards us from deception. Love without truth can become mere sentiment, while truth without love can become cold and lifeless. In God, love and truth are perfectly united.

We see this harmony throughout Scripture. God's truth tells us that we are sinners in need of grace. God's love provides that grace through Jesus Christ. Truth exposes our need; love meets that need. Truth calls us to repentance; love welcomes us home. Truth guides our steps; love sustains us when we stumble.

David's example challenges believers to keep God's love before their eyes while walking in His truth every day. The order is significant. We do not obey God merely out of obligation or fear. We respond to the reality of His steadfast love. As we grow in our understanding of His love, we become more willing to trust His truth, even when it challenges us.

In a world where truth is often questioned and love is often redefined, Psalm 26:3 reminds us that genuine spiritual maturity requires both. God's love gives us security, and God's truth gives us direction. When we fix our eyes on His lovingkindness and walk in His truth, we find a life marked by faithfulness, peace, and confidence in Him.

Reflection

Ask yourself: Am I keeping God's lovingkindness before my eyes, or am I focusing more on my circumstances? And is my daily walk reflecting the truth God has revealed in His Word? The closer we hold to God's love and truth, the steadier our steps will become.

"Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ" (John 1:17). In Christ, we see the perfect expression of both God's unfailing love and His eternal truth.

...Let thy salvation, O God, set me up on high

 Psalm 69:29 (ESV) says:

"But I am afflicted and in pain; let your salvation, O God, set me on high!"

Short Commentary

This verse comes from a psalm of David in which he pours out his suffering, rejection, and distress before God. Rather than pretending to be strong, David openly admits that he is "afflicted and in pain." His hope is not in his own ability to escape hardship but in God's salvation.

The phrase "set me on high" pictures God lifting someone out of danger and placing them in a secure place. David is asking God to rescue him, protect him, and restore him despite his circumstances.

For believers today, Psalm 69:29 is a reminder that faith does not require hiding our wounds. We can bring our pain honestly to God while trusting that His salvation is greater than our suffering. Even when life feels overwhelming, God is able to lift us above despair and give us hope.

Blog Reflection Angle

Since Ecclesiastes 12:13 resonates with a life philosophy, you might connect this verse to the idea that a life of faith is not about having an easy path but about knowing where to turn when difficulties come. God's presence does not always remove pain immediately, but it gives us a secure place to stand in the middle of it.

A possible closing thought:

When David cried, "I am afflicted and in pain," he wasn't expressing a lack of faith. He was demonstrating faith. He brought his suffering directly to God and trusted Him to lift him up. Sometimes our greatest act of faith is simply admitting our need and placing our hope in God's saving grace.

"Before You Hit Publish: A Reflection on Psalm 68:11"

 For a blog post centered on Psalm 68:11, we can explore both the original meaning of the verse and how it speaks to modern publishing, writing, and blogging.

Psalm 68:11 (KJV)

"The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it."

Commentary on Psalm 68:11

Psalm 68 celebrates God's power, victory, and faithfulness. In verse 11, David acknowledges that the message did not originate with people. The Lord gave the word. God was the source of truth, and a great company of people shared that truth with others.

The word published in the King James Version means more than printing books or posting online. In its biblical context, it carries the idea of proclaiming, announcing, or spreading important news. The focus is not on self-promotion but on faithfully communicating a message that comes from God.

As modern writers and bloggers, this verse offers a thought-provoking principle. Every time we hit the "publish" button, we participate in a form of public proclamation. While our words may not carry divine authority, Psalm 68:11 reminds us that words have influence. Because of that influence, writers should consider whether what they publish is truthful, helpful, and honoring to God.

In a digital age where anyone can instantly share opinions with a global audience, Psalm 68:11 encourages mindfulness. Before publishing a post, article, comment, or social media update, it can be worthwhile to ask:

• Is what I'm sharing true?
• Is it beneficial to others?
• Does it build up rather than tear down?
• Am I seeking God's wisdom in what I communicate?
• Does this reflect the character of Christ?

The verse also highlights community. David speaks of a "great company" of those who published the word. God's message was not carried by a single individual but by many voices working together. Likewise, bloggers, writers, teachers, and everyday believers can contribute to spreading truth, encouragement, and hope in a world often filled with confusion and negativity.

For Christian writers, Psalm 68:11 is both an encouragement and a responsibility. The encouragement is that God has always used ordinary people to communicate important truths. The responsibility is remembering that published words have lasting impact. Whether writing a blog post, sharing a testimony, or posting on social media, our words should be chosen carefully, knowing they may influence others long after they are written.

Personal Reflection

When I read Psalm 68:11, I can't help thinking about blogging. The phrase "those that published it" reminds me of pressing the publish button and sending words into the world. It makes me pause and consider the content I create. Am I simply adding more noise to the internet, or am I sharing something that is true, uplifting, and worthwhile? This verse reminds me that publishing is more than making information public. It is an opportunity to steward words responsibly and to use them in ways that point others toward truth, wisdom, and hope.

He asked life of thee...

 Psalm 21:4

"He asked life of thee, and thou gavest it him, even length of days for ever and ever." (KJV)

Short Commentary

Psalm 21 is a song of thanksgiving celebrating God's blessings on the king. In verse 4, David reflects on how God answered his prayer for life and preservation. On the surface, the verse speaks of God sparing and sustaining the king through dangers and battles. David recognized that every day of life was a gift from God's hand.

The phrase "for ever and ever" points beyond mere earthly longevity. It hints at God's enduring covenant promises and ultimately finds its fullest meaning in the Messiah, whose reign and life are truly everlasting. For believers, this verse reminds us that God not only cares for our present needs but also offers the gift of eternal life through His salvation.

The heart of the verse is gratitude. David asked, and God gave. It encourages us to bring our needs to God with confidence, remembering that He is generous, attentive, and able to give blessings that extend far beyond what we can imagine.

Reflection:
God's answers may not always come in the way or timing we expect, but His gifts are often greater than our requests. David asked for life; God gave life, preservation, and a legacy that pointed toward eternity.

...Rejoicing the Heart, Commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes

 Psalm 19:8 (KJV)

"The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes."

Short Commentary

Psalm 19:8 highlights the goodness and life-giving power of God's Word. David describes God's statutes as "right," meaning they are trustworthy and perfectly aligned with truth. Because God's instructions lead us in the right path, they bring joy and peace to the heart rather than burdensome confusion.

The verse also says that God's commandment is "pure, enlightening the eyes." God's Word is free from error and moral corruption. It gives spiritual understanding, helping us see life, ourselves, and God more clearly. Just as light helps us navigate a dark path, Scripture gives wisdom for daily living and direction for our walk with the Lord.

In a world filled with competing voices and changing opinions, Psalm 19:8 reminds believers that true joy and true insight are found in God's unchanging truth. When we read and obey His Word, our hearts are encouraged, and our spiritual vision becomes clearer.

Reflection:
God's Word is not merely a set of rules to follow; it is a source of joy, wisdom, and spiritual light for those who seek Him.

and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

 Since I'm pairing this with a Psalm 13:1 image, it helps to acknowledge the honest pain of David's words while pointing readers to the hope found throughout Scripture.

When God Feels Far Away

"How long, Lord? Will You forget me forever?" (Psalm 13:1)

Most believers experience seasons when God feels distant. Prayers seem to bounce off the ceiling, answers don't come when we expect them, and His presence feels harder to sense. David felt this way too. In Psalm 13, he cried out honestly about his struggle instead of pretending everything was fine.

If you find yourself in that place, remember that feelings are not always facts. God's presence does not depend on your ability to feel Him. Even when emotions tell us we are alone, God's Word reminds us that He is faithful and near.

When God seems far away:

• Keep praying, even if the words are simple.
• Be honest about your fears, hurts, and questions.
• Spend time in Scripture, allowing God's truth to speak louder than your feelings.
• Reach out to trusted believers who can encourage you and pray with you.
• Look back on times God has carried you before and remember His faithfulness.

Most importantly, hold on to God's promises. Jesus said, "I am with you always" (Matthew 28:20). He does not leave when life becomes difficult. He remains with us in the waiting, in the uncertainty, and in the silence.

Like David, we can bring our questions to God and still choose to trust Him. The same psalm that begins with "How long, Lord?" ends with confidence in God's unfailing love. When God feels far away, remember that He is often working in ways we cannot yet see, and His presence is closer than our feelings may suggest.

Sometimes faith is not feeling God's presence. It's trusting His promise that He is there.

"Fearfully and Wonderfully Made"

 

 💜

Psalm 139:14 says:

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made."

One of the beautiful things about that verse is that it isn't based on youth, appearance, athletic ability, or comparing ourselves to other people. It reminds us that our worth comes from being intentionally created by God.

As we get older, it's easy to focus on things we can't do anymore or on changes in our bodies. But Psalm 139 points us in a different direction. It tells us that we still have value, purpose, abilities, and gifts. Your body may do some things differently than it did years ago, but that does not make you any less wonderfully made.

It's also worth remembering that physical ability isn't measured only by strength or speed. Being able to create beautiful digital artwork, learn new skills, care for family, encourage others, and keep growing are all meaningful accomplishments. ... still learning, creating, studying design, and exploring new ideas. That's something to be proud of.

A thought for a blog reflection:

"Psalm 139:14 reminds me that God's opinion of me is not determined by my age. I am still wonderfully made, still capable of learning, creating, and contributing. Instead of focusing on limitations, I can be thankful for what God has enabled me to do today."

This verse lifted my spirits. Sometimes a single Scripture can help us see ourselves through God's eyes 😊🙏🏻

Things to be Thankful for

Sometimes gratitude comes more easily when we remember how many ordinary things quietly support our lives every day.

Basic Needs

• Clean water
• Food to eat
• A safe place to sleep
• Clothing
• Electricity and heat
• Access to medical care
• Transportation

People

• Family members
• Friends
• Neighbors
• Teachers and mentors
• Coworkers
• Kind strangers
• People who encourage and support you

Health and Well-Being

• Being alive today
• Your ability to breathe
• Your senses (sight, hearing, taste, touch, smell)
• Mobility and strength
• A mind that can learn and grow
• Moments of rest and sleep
• Healing and recovery

Nature

• Sunrises and sunsets
• Fresh air
• Rain
• Trees and flowers
• Birds singing
• Mountains, rivers, and oceans
• The changing seasons
• Starry nights

Everyday Comforts

• A warm cup of coffee or tea
• A comfortable bed
• A favorite meal
• Music
• Books
• Laughter
• Clean sheets
• Pets

Opportunities

• Education
• The ability to learn new skills
• Employment or volunteer opportunities
• Freedom to make choices
• Technology that connects us
• Creative outlets
• New experiences
• Second chances

Personal Growth

• Lessons learned through challenges
• Mistakes that taught wisdom
• Strength developed through difficulty
• Progress, even if it's slow
• New perspectives
• Resilience
• Hope for the future

Small Daily Blessings

• A smile from someone
• A pleasant conversation
• Finding something you lost
• A good parking spot
• Finishing a task
• A moment of peace
• A favorite song coming on
• Unexpected kindness

Faith and Spirituality

• God's love
• Grace and forgiveness
• Prayer
• Scripture
• Church community
• Hope
• Purpose
• The gift of each new day

Sometimes Forgotten Things

• Running water
• Indoor plumbing
• Internet access
• Libraries
• Emergency services
• Farmers who grow food
• Workers who keep communities functioning
• The freedom to express your thoughts

A simple gratitude practice is to ask yourself each day:

1. What made me smile today?
2. Who helped me today?
3. What comfort did I enjoy today?
4. What challenge taught me something today?
5. What can I thank God for today?

You may be surprised how quickly the list grows. 🌷

Commentary on Psalm 31:24

Psalm 31:24 Commentary: Hope for the Weary Heart

"Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord." — Psalm 31:24 (KJV)

There are seasons in life when courage feels hard to find. Responsibilities pile up, prayers seem unanswered, and the future appears uncertain. Yet Psalm 31:24 offers a beautiful reminder that courage is not something we must create on our own. It is something God nurtures within us.

David wrote this psalm during a time of distress. He faced enemies, fear, and uncertainty, but he also experienced God's faithfulness. After pouring out his struggles to the Lord, David ends this psalm with a message of encouragement, not only for himself but for all believers: "Be of good courage."

Biblical courage is not the absence of fear. It is choosing to trust God even when fear is present. Courage grows when we remember who God is and believe that He remains in control of circumstances beyond our understanding.

The second part of the verse contains a wonderful promise: "He shall strengthen your heart." God does not simply command us to be brave and then leave us to figure it out alone. He provides the strength we need. When our hearts are discouraged, weary, or anxious, He renews us. His strength becomes available when our own strength runs out.

This promise is given to those who "hope in the Lord." Biblical hope is more than wishful thinking. It is confident trust in God's character, His promises, and His timing. Hope anchors us when life feels unstable. It reminds us that even when we cannot see what God is doing, He is still working.

As a wife, mother, student, or anyone facing life's many challenges, it can be tempting to focus on our limitations. Psalm 31:24 gently redirects our attention. Instead of looking at our weaknesses, we are encouraged to look toward God. The stronger our hope in Him, the stronger our hearts become.

Today, if you find yourself carrying worries about your family, your future, your education, your finances, or your health, take courage. God sees every concern you carry. Place your hope in Him, and trust that He will provide the strength you need for this day and every day ahead.

Reflection Question:
What situation in your life right now requires you to place your hope in the Lord instead of relying on your own strength?

Prayer:
Lord, when fear and uncertainty try to overwhelm me, help me remember that my hope is in You. Strengthen my heart and give me courage to trust You with every area of my life. Thank You for being faithful, even when I cannot see the whole picture. In Jesus' name, Amen.

 

I used to have a second blog called With My Whole Heart Have I Sought Thee

 That's a beautiful title. "With My Whole Heart Have I Sought Thee" comes from Psalm 119:10 (KJV): "With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments."

Given what you've shared with me before about your faith, your blogging journey, and your previous blogs, that title feels very consistent with the reflective, Scripture-centered writing you've done. It also contrasts interestingly with your other former blog title, "Death by Soup," which had a more humorous and everyday-life feel.

If you're looking back on that blog, it might even provide inspiration for your current writing. Themes such as:

• Seeking God through life's seasons
• Faith while raising children
• Returning to education as an adult
• Spiritual growth and perseverance
• Finding purpose and direction

would connect naturally with a title like With My Whole Heart Have I Sought Thee.

It's also a title that conveys a deeply personal testimony. Readers immediately understand that the focus is on a sincere pursuit of God rather than simply sharing information.

I can help you brainstorm ways to weave the history of With My Whole Heart Have I Sought Thee, Death by Soup, and your current blog into an "About Me" story if you'd like.

My blog URL used to be "Thy Loving Kindness is Before Mine Eyes"

 That's a beautiful title. "Thy Loving Kindness is Before Mine Eyes" comes from Psalm 26:3 (KJV):

"For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth."

It has a distinctly devotional and reflective feel, which fits well with faith-centered writing.

Given your blogging journey, it sounds like you've gone through several identities over the years:

• Thy Loving Kindness is Before Mine Eyes
• Death by Soup
• Lauralee's Blog (current)

Each title emphasizes a different part of your story. The Psalm title highlights faith and Scripture, "Death by Soup" has a more personal and memorable creative feel, and "Lauralee's Blog" centers on you as the author.

If you're reflecting on your blog's history or writing an "About" page, you could mention it like this:

My blogging journey has taken several forms over the years. Long before this blog became Lauralee's Blog, it was known as Thy Loving Kindness is Before Mine Eyes, a title inspired by Psalm 26:3. Through different seasons of life, faith, family, and personal growth have remained at the heart of what I write.

It's interesting how a former blog title can capture a particular season of life. "Thy Loving Kindness is Before Mine Eyes" sounds like it reflected a strong focus on God's faithfulness and grace.

Let's not mention Death by Soup ever again. lol. I was a wild teen. 

😂 Deal. We'll quietly leave that one in the archive where many teenage decisions belong.

Honestly, Thy Loving Kindness is Before Mine Eyes feels much more connected to the themes you've told me matter to you now: faith in Jesus, growth, family life, and your college journey. It has a timeless, Scripture-rooted quality that still sounds meaningful years later.

If you ever write about your blogging history, you could simply say:

My first blog was titled Thy Loving Kindness is Before Mine Eyes, inspired by Psalm 26:3. Even through many seasons of change, God's faithfulness has remained the thread running through my life and writing.

No need to inventory every stop along the way. 😄

I actually think that old title reveals something important about you. Before college, before raising a teenager, before all the life experience you've accumulated, you were already drawn to reflecting on God's lovingkindness. That's a pretty consistent thread.

And for what it's worth, Thy Loving Kindness is Before Mine Eyes is exactly the kind of title I'd expect from a thoughtful Christian with a Bible nearby and a lot of feelings to process. There are definitely worse things to be remembered for. ❤️