June 28
Read Psalms 18 -- 22
The effects of the Word of God are beyond compare since it was by His Word that the worlds were created and by which they are still upheld (Hebrews 1:3). The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handywork (Psalms 19:1). But most exciting is the transforming influence of Jesus, the Word of God made flesh, upon all who receive Him as Lord: The Law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the Testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple (19:7). You can count on it! Nothing compares with the Word of the Lord in providing insight for every need, for the Word of the Lord is right (33:4).
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 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 (19:7). It is as far superior to the words of man as the heavens are above the earth. No modern-day writer would dare to say that his books are inspired of God as the books of the Bible were inspired. Neither can they say they are perfect, converting the soul. Then why should anyone settle for less than to receive with meekness the engrafted Word, which is able to save your souls (James 1:21)?
2. It is the Testimony of the Lord (Psalms 19:7). In the Bible God speaks, making wise the simple. The Apostle Paul confirmed this to Timothy, saying: You have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise unto salvation (II Timothy 3:15).
3. It is the Statutes of the Lord and, therefore, right (Psalms 19:8), because they are founded on the righteousness of God and, they unmistakably provide direction and correction for one's life. His Word reveals what we are, as well as what God has planned for us.
4. It is the Commandment of the Lord (19:8) -- not mere suggested alternatives. It has not been mixed with contemporary, popular opinion; it is the expression of the holiness of God. When obeyed from a heart full of love and thankfulness, His commandments are not considered legalistic because of one's desire to please the Lord. Enlightening the eyes (Psalms 19:8), His commandments provide direction into a new life of freedom from the bondage of sin, self, and Satan to enjoy true freedom and the blessings of the Lord.
5. It reveals the Fear of the Lord (19:9), not a fear of being in His presence, but 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). God's judgments are in accordance with His Holy and Righteous Nature and are for His glory and man's good.
The psalmist expresses well what our feelings should be concerning the Word of God. It is more to be desired . . . than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb (Psalms 19:10).
Christ Revealed: As the One who said in the prophecies: They pierced My hands and My feet (Psalms 22:16), and: They part My garments among them, and cast lots upon My vesture (22:18). Jesus' hands and feet were pierced (John 19:37) and the soldiers split his robe and cast lots for it (Matt. 27:35; Mark 15:24; Luke 23:34).
Word Studies: 18:2 horn of my salvation means my strong deliverer; 18:26 froward (first use) means crooked; perverse; froward (second use) means unfavorable; opposed; 18:45 close places means fortresses or strongholds; 22:5 confounded means put to shame; 22:7 shoot out the lip means ridicule, hurl insults; 22:17 tell means count.
Government Officials: Rep. Jane Harman (CA), Rep. Jim Kolbe (AZ), Sen. Carl Levin (MI), Rep. Major Owens (NY), and Rep. Ed Pastor (AZ) · BPM Staff: Karen Hawkins · Pray for Jan Dahlin, coordinator for Swedish translation and radio ministry · Pray for the Bible Pathway International Radio broadcast in memory of Fred, David, and Tom Church · Country: Namibia (2 million) in southwest Africa · Major languages: Afrikaans and German · Religious freedom · 68% Protestant; 16% Roman Catholic; 5% African traditional religions · Prayer Suggestion: Confess wrongs you have committed to the Lord and to those whom you have hurt; ask for forgiveness (Matthew 5:23-24).
Optional Reading: Colossians 1
Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 12:9