Bible Pathways - June 28, 2007
In Today's Scripture Reading:
Thanksgiving for deliverance; creation and Covenants of God; a prayer for God's people; cry of anguish and song of praise
The effects of the Word of God are beyond compare, for it was by His Word that the worlds were created and by which they are still upheld (Hebrews 1:3). The heavens declare (are telling of) the glory of God; and the firmament (expanse) sheweth His handy-work (Psalm 19:1). Most exciting is the transforming power of Jesus, the Word of God made flesh, upon all who receive Him as Lord.
The first six verses of Psalm 19 refer to the works of God in the world, and the remaining eight refer to the marvelous influence of His Word on the lives of all who love and obey Him.
In this short psalm, six names are used to express the Word of God:
1. It is the Law of the Lord and, as such, is perfect (complete), converting the soul (restoring the whole person) . . . making wise the simple (19:7). It is as far superior to the words of man as the heavens are above the earth. Then why should anyone settle for less than to receive with meekness the engrafted (implanted) Word, which is able to save (deliver, preserve) your souls (James 1:21)?
2. The testimony of the Lord is sure (never fails), making wise the simple (Psalm 19:7). The Apostle Paul confirmed this to Timothy, saying: Thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation (II Timothy 3:15).
3. It is the statutes (precepts) of the Lord and, therefore, right (Psalm 19:8), because they are founded solely on the righteousness of God. His Word reveals what we are, as well as what God has planned for us to be.
4. It is the Commandment of the Lord (19:8) — not merely suggested alternatives to popular opinion; it is the expression of the holiness of God. His Commandments provide a new life free from sin's bondage.
5. It reveals the fear of the Lord (19:9), a reverential admiration for His holiness and a fear of offending His majesty.
6. It is the judgments of the Lord (which) are true and righteous altogether (19:9).
The psalmist expresses well what our feelings should be concerning the incomparable Word of God. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey (Psalm 19:10).
Christ Revealed:
As the One to whom the psalms refer when they speak of the nails that pierced His hands and feet on the cross and the parting of His clothing (Psalm 22:16,18). When they had crucified Him, they parted His garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take (Mark 15:24). See also Matthew 27:35; Luke 23:34; John 19:18.
Word Studies:
18:2 horn of my salvation => my strong deliverer; 18:26 froward (first use) => crooked; perverse; froward (second use) => hostile; 18:45 close places => fortresses or strongholds; 22:5 confounded => put to shame; 22:7 shoot out the lip => ridicule, hurl insults; 22:17 tell => count.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The English International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Robert & Laura Davis and by Thursday Morning Prayer Bible Pathway Accountant: Joe Sarsfield Government Officials: Rep. Jane Harman (CA), Sen. Carl Levin (MI), and Rep. Ed Pastor (AZ) Country: Zaire, Democratic Republic of the Congo (63 million) in south-central Africa Major languages: French and Lingala Limited religious freedom 42% Roman Catholic; 28% Protestant; 12% magical practices, ancestor worship, and witchcraft; 1% Muslim Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for those who forsake or disappoint you (II Timothy 4:16).
Optional Reading: Colossians 1
Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 19:10
