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But as for me I shall walk in my integrity; redeem me and be gracious to me. My foot stands on level ground; in the great assembly I will bless the LORD.¹

Tomorrow, 26^th October, is a milestone for my family as we celebrate Stella’s birthday. It is hard to believe that I married her when she was 24 years old. We’ve grown old together. Steadfast, we have been walking a winding and bumpy road, but together just the same as one flesh. We are hopeful of what the future brings, fulfilling a covenant decision—until death do us part.

An excellent wife is the crown of her husband . . . (but she who brings shame is like rottenness in his bones).² House and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD.³

David has been consistent—his heart’s desire has been to honor and please God. Even during times of testing, he never wavered. In the past tense, he reminds God, Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have walked in my integrity, and I have trusted in the LORD without wavering.⁴ Surely, it was a decision that he made early on to trust the LORD that sustained him. Like Joshua, David chose whom he will serve. Now therefore fear the LORD and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served . . . and serve the LORD. And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served . . . in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”⁵

In the present tense, he spoke, Prove me, O LORD, and try me; test my heart and my mind. For your steadfast love is before my eyes, and I walk in your faithfulness.⁶ He not only knew about God, but David steadfastly walked with God, loving him with all his heart, soul, and strength. He was faithful to obey the shema.⁷ I wonder if the mystery that the church as Bride of Christ⁸ had been revealed to David?

In the future tense, David boldly declares, But as for me, I shall walk in my integrity; redeem me, and be gracious to me. My foot stands on level ground; in the great assembly I will bless the LORD.¹ The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him.⁹

Let me share an anecdote about the picture I posted above. I was so amused with an old fb post since I was reminded of a conversation Stella had with her only brother: “Is George a chocoholic?” Quino fishing ideas from Stella prior to his visit here. GR to Stella: “Tell Quino that’s an understatement.” Gist of Stella’s TXT back to Quino: “No choco; just bring nuts.” We received an assortment of nuts. What would the world be without women?!!”

An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. . . .¹⁰ Stella chose what was good for me (or was she thinking of herself??). This is the reason God commands, Husbands love your wives . . .¹¹ God didn’t say, “Husbands understand your wives.” Since we husbands will never totally grasp how women are! They are an enigma! But God’s grace is sufficient!¹² He is faithful. God’s will is good, pleasing, perfect.³² LORD, thank you for my crown jewel. AMEN!