October 29, 2019
What does it say?
Those who meditate on God’s Word and live according to its commands find counsel, strength, joy, and freedom.
What does it mean?
The sole theme of Psalm 119, the longest prayer in the Bible, is the Word of God. An acrostic psalm, it uses eight stanzas for each of the twenty-two letters of the Hebrew alphabet to exalt Scripture. The synonyms for God’s Word in today’s passage (law, precepts, statutes, commands, and decrees) express different aspects of His Word. In addition, several facets of God’s work in the believer’s life are addressed (cleansing, instructing, strengthening, and defending). The psalmist’s deep love for God’s law led to his commitment to internalize its contents. He didn’t find God’s Word to be restrictive; rather it offered the freedom of a life without regrets and was a continual source of joy.
How should I respond?
People often view the Bible as a book that limits their freedom to do as they wish, but the only thing that Scripture restricts is sin. It is sin, along with its consequences and guilt, that confines us (2 Peter 2:19). God’s Word is a roadmap to a rewarding life and a foundation on which to build a life free of regret. Are you resolved to know and follow God’s ways? Make a commitment to read the Bible each day and meditate on what it means and how you should respond to its warnings and instructions. Ask God for a passion for His Word. God’s Word is truth which gives freedom to the soul (John 8:32).