If you do these things, then this will happen. This is what these verses seem to say. Is this the recipe for a reciprocating correlational relationship? Or the results of life choices because that is how God made the world to exist?
I am told to do two things in these two verses. First, Trust in the LORD and do good, and second, Delight myself in the LORD. These two directives are not meant to be like putting money into a vending machine and getting a snack and drink in return. Trusting in and delighting in the Lord are not commodities. If they are offered as a bargaining coin, then they are not sincere. Sincerity is the only true trust and delight acceptable in a loving and respectful relationship. Is a soul satisfied if the expressed emotion is not given in sincerity?
Since these verses cannot produce a reciprocating correlational relationship because they can be given without sincerity, then are these the results of life choices? Jesus’ statement helps when considering this thought, “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:31-33)
David is saying the same, except he states two examples of how to seek first the Lord God’s kingdom and righteousness. A person who seeks after the kingdom of God delights themself in the Lord. A person who seeks God’s righteousness first commits their way to the Lord Jesus. If I wake in the morning and know I only have one thing to do first and foremost, that is follow Jesus the rest of the day, then I will dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture, and he will give me the desires of my heart.
