Journey to Jerusalem Day 21

Tuesday, March 9 Psalm 19:7-11
7The law of the Lord is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the testimony of the Lord is sure,
making wise the simple;
8 the precepts of the Lord are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is pure,
enlightening the eyes;
9 the fear of the Lord is clean,
enduring forever;
the rules 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.

These verses of Psalm 19, written by David, call to mind God’s Word: law, testimony, precepts, commandment, rules—all are synonyms of the Word of God. One of the primary ways we get to know God and his ways is by reading the Bible.

As David gazed upon and meditated upon the word of the Lord, his commandments, and rules, he didn’t find them confining or restricting or limiting as we might when we consider rules or laws enforced upon us. No, David describes God’s rules and commandments as perfect, sure, right, pure, clean, true, and righteous. He didn’t feel like he had to give up something—such as his freedom or control—to follow God’s ways but found that God’s ways were actually the best for him: in keeping them there is great reward.

These rewards included reviving the soul, making wise the simple, rejoicing the heart, and enlightening the eyes. We too will find these great rewards when we choose to dwell in the word of the Lord, to read, study, and meditate upon his precious words. And not only that, but to do them. To live our lives in accordance with his word. To open ourselves to be transformed in body, mind, and soul by the Holy Spirit.

I urge you to make it a habit to read and absorb God’s word on a daily basis. Make it a priority this Lenten season and allow the Holy Spirit to revive your soul and rejoice your heart.

Righteous Father, you have given us your Word that we would know you and would learn your ways. Through the grace of your Holy Spirt, continue to transform me by the power of your Word. Let your Word dwell in me richly that I may know and love you more.
Amen.