Read: Judges 26:1-12
Memory Verse: Psalm 26:1-2
Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide. Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart.
Reins is an old English word referring to the Kidneys and the Liver. Both the kidneys and the liver act as our bodies’ filtration systems. Part of righteousness is to filter out the garbage and the false teachings of the world. Romans 12:1-2 admonishes us “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
We need to filter out the false teachings and philosophies and absorb the good teaching into our lives. These two systems are not as “romantic” as the heart but vital to our health. Without them, we would have to be on dialysis or waiting for a transplant. It is important for us to be careful of the false teachings of the world.
Kidney punches are illegal in boxing, but not in war. Job described it this way in Job 16:13; “His archers compass me round about, he cleaveth my reins asunder, and doth not spare; he poureth out my gall upon the ground.” We would use the phrase “He gutted him.” It is often devastating circumstances or news that make us feel this way; bad medical diagnosis, loss of a loved one, economic crisis, a friend turning on you, etc.
During those times we can only trust in the righteousness of God. “Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just: for the righteous God trieth the hearts and reins. My defence is of God, which saveth the upright in heart” (Psalm 7:9-10)
Meditation for the Day: When are those times when you have received a “spiritual or emotional” kidney punch? How has that made you feel? How did you get over it?
Assignment: What is the right way to handle devastating news or overwhelming circumstances?
For Fun: Google the kidneys and liver. How do they work and what is the treatment when they are injured or not working right.