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.
11 Moreover by them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
12 But who can detect their errors?
Clear me from hidden faults.
13 Keep back your servant also from the insolent;d
do not let them have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless,
and innocent of great transgression.

Lord,
Your ordinances are “more desired than gold”, “sweeter than honey.” Jesus once talked about a treasure buried in a field that cost the buyer everything and was worth it. Your law, your words, your instruction, your way, your salvation is worth it – more desired than gold and sweeter than honey.

You make it clear that those who live according to your ordinances discover great rewards and those who know your words avoid life-destroying mistakes.

Allow me an observation or two. Lord, correct me if I am wrong.

Too many of us claim to love you and your ordinances and words and claim to hold the Holy Scriptures sacred and all the while do not know you nor your words nor your Son.

And too many of us know scripture but never really know the character of Jesus and believe that the words about you and the words about Jesus are the same as knowing your character and living with your Spirit. That is the way it seems to me. Lord, let that not be the way it is with me.

PERSONAL PRAYERS:
Ask God to help you to know not only the ordinances of God but also the Spirit of God.
Name 5 things for which you are grateful and say “Thank you” to God.
In Christ’s name,
Amen.

14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,
O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
[1]

d Or from proud thoughts

[1] The Holy Bible : New Revised Standard Version. Nashville : Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1989