In David's era, the number of teachers and resources was far fewer than we see today, and with the present abundance, dedicating every moment to such study seems unfeasible. Nonetheless, this prophet, a figure of truth rather than mere fantasy, assured happiness and identified the study of God’s law at all times as the pathway to such joy. How can this be achieved? It is through devout meditation and sincere prayer; these practices allow a person to embody, as Moses describes, the activities of "sitting in the house, walking in the way, lying down, and rising up."
Dear Christian brethren, can we, who take pride in being the new spiritual Israel, fail in the same teachings that Moses and David effectively imparted to the ancient, earthly Israel? Would we not feel deep shame? Would we not deserve harsh rebuke? Let us, guided by David's guidance, seek true blessedness by immersing ourselves in the law of the Lord. We must be diligent in considering God and seeking to please Him in every moment, as Moses instructed—whether we are "sitting in the house, walking, or lying down." Why do you permit your thoughts, like unbroken steeds, to roam untamed, aimlessly and without purpose? Train yourselves to, as the Psalmist advises, "grip them... with reins and bridle" (Psalm 31:9) through steadfast will and thoughtful reasoning, being ready to calm them or to steer them towards righteous aims, particularly the ultimate purpose of our existence—to God, to Christ, to heaven, to eternity.
Some may argue that worldly distractions readily capture our attention and captivate our thoughts. While it’s true they might seize our senses unexpectedly, they cannot claim our thoughts unless we willingly surrender to them. With divine assistance, you can "turn away your eyes," as it says, "so as not to see vanity" (Psalm 118:37). Additionally, by looking at the material through a spiritual lens, akin to the blessed St. Tikhon, you can "gather spiritual treasure from the world." St. Macarius teaches that "all things that are subject to our gaze are the shadow and image of things pertaining to our soul." He advises, "When you look at the sun, seek the true sun, for you are blind. When you look into the light, turn your gaze from there to your soul, and see whether you have within you the true and good light, which is the Lord" (Discourse 33).
It is typical for a Christian to earnestly direct his heart and thoughts towards Him whose name he carries—to recall the life of Christ our Lord to emulate Him, to delve into His teachings and commandments to fulfill them, to reverently contemplate His sufferings and crucifixion for our redemption, and His glorious resurrection for our own blessed resurrection. In doing so, we nurture and fortify our faith, love, and hope, allowing Christ God to dwell within us on earth, and ultimately enabling us to live in God in heaven for eternity. Amen.
THEOSIS