Psalm 19

Psalm 19 (NRSV)
7 The law of the Lord is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the decrees of the Lord are sure,
making wise the simple;
8 the precepts of the Lord are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is clear,
enlightening the eyes;
9 the fear of the Lord is pure,
enduring forever;
the ordinances of the Lord are true
and righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey,
and drippings of the honeycomb.


Lord,

That which comes from you revives, makes wise, gives joy, enlightens, endures and is entirely right.

Does it follow that what revives, is wise, grants joy and enlightens always comes form you? Careful Joe, what looks like wisdom and joy may merely be attractive counterfeits. Of course, we attribute some things to the Lord that the Lord would clearly reject. Be careful as to what is attributed to the Lord.

Even so, the poet is clear that all that comes from You, Lord, is given with the clear intention of blessing and enriching our lives. You are for us and not against us. You created us for joyful and abundant living and you give us the resources necessary, the resources of your “law”.

As for me, I know that a law or rule or insight or instruction comes from you when it is consistent with Jesus, his life, instruction, and behavior. He is the fulfillment of the law, the law’s highest expression, the “word made flesh.”

For your gifts, for the way of life revealed in your law and fulfilled in Christ, O God, thank you.

PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you to attune your life with the “law of God” as fully revealed in Jesus.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thanks you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.