Psalm 19

Scripture  Psalm 19:7-10 

The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul.  The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple.  The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart.  The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.  The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever.  The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous.  They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb. Observation-What does it say?  This psalm is another attributed to the man after God’s heart, King David.  The psalm is written in praise of the goodness of God’s law, which is pure and clean, bringing joy and wisdom, instruction and enlightenment to our souls.  David highlights the seemingly contrasting nature of God and his wisdom, to the world’s view of wisdom and knowledge.  The simple, or childlike, are made wise.  Rules and discipline are not intended to hinder, but to bring joy.  David had the same view of God’s words, which was later expressed by Paul in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. Understanding-What does it mean?  I had lunch with an old friend recently, someone who I have been close with for more than half my life.  He’s one of my closest friends, whom I can trust to be both good company and wise counsel, even when we go through times that our schedules prevent us from getting together.  As we caught up over a bike ride and lunch, I felt refreshed and rejuvenated and excited about life.  I was able to gain perspective on the problems that I was having and we could rejoice over the good things going on in our lives.  Almost anytime I get to spend time with old friends, I am surprised at the feeling of refreshing I get.  Proverbs 25:13 says these words are like a drink of cool water, “Like a snow-cooled drink at harvest time is a trustworthy messenger to the one who sends him; he refreshes the spirit of his master.” If the word of a friend is so refreshing, how much more so are the words of our creator?  God’s words and laws bring us the life and fulfillment we are looking for.  But, when we go through times that are trying and grow our faith, what do we fall back on?  If we fall back on the word of God, we will be refreshed and find life.  How do you know God's words unless we read them?  When we read and remember His words, then we can fall back on them.   6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates. Life Application  Jesus help me to remember your words more readily.  Words like those spoken through Paul, when he reminded us we can do all things through Your strength (Philippians 4:13), and that you work out all things for our good (Romans 8:28).  Help me to spread the refreshing of Your words with my family and friends.  Fill me with joy to sing of Your kindness and mercy.-Tyler Galloway