Scripture Reading(s)
Psalm 19
19:1 The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.
19:2 Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge.
19:3 There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard;
19:4 yet their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun,
19:5 which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and like a strong man runs its course with joy.
19:6 Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them; and nothing is hid from its heat.
19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the LORD are sure, making wise the simple;
19:8 the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is clear, enlightening the eyes;
19:9 the fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
19:10 More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey, and drippings of the honeycomb.
19:11 Moreover by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.
19:12 But who can detect their errors? Clear me from hidden faults.
19:13 Keep back your servant also from the insolent; do not let them have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression.
19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.
Reflections
God’s word is a place in which we can go to seek council, joy and peace. His word is a place in which we can truly see the character of God being revealed and where we gain more insight as to who we is and what we as Christians should be reflecting.
In this Psalm we see how God’s word reflects His character in serval ways:
- God’s word reflects His Power (vs 1-6): These verses touch on God’s power being revealed in nature. We are given a picture of God’s power and majesty. I love how in verse four it describes that the message of the word extends to every part of the earth. Furthermore, in verses 4-6 we see how God is the creature and ruler over all creation.
- God’s word reflects His Infinite Value (vs 7-10): In these few verses we see how God’s word is being compared to things like gold and honey. His words are much more valuable then things that we deem to be worth a great price. We also see how His words hold wisdom, purity and righteousness. Overall His word is perfect and there is nothing that be compared to it.
- God’s word reflects His Judgement and Grace (11-14): When we are faced with the reality of our sin, God warns of what happens when we steer away from His commandments. However, God’s word also extends a hand of Grace to those who accept it and offers a renewed and changed heart.
Let our prayer be as the Psalmist cries out in verse 14
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer. (Psalm 19:14)
What more could ever be added to this psalm? What a great declaration about the Lord.
The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the LORD are sure, making wise the simple. (Psalm 19:7)
It is interesting that the law of the Lord is described as reviving the soul. Most people think of laws and rules to be road blocks to fun. But the law of the Lord is designed to bring abundance and peace. Much of the laws given to the Israelites for living in the land were given to improve the lives of all the inhabitants, not beat them down.
More broadly, though, God’s plan for His people is to always make sure they are having their souls revived. Whether it’s through the word, or worship, or a timely word from a friend, God is always providing opportunities for us to refresh and revive our souls.
But are we taking time to slow down and wait for the Lord? Are we remembering to be still and listen for God’s voice to speak to us? I would submit that without doing so we might miss out on prime opportunities to be refreshed by God.