THE PSALMIST’S LOVE FOR GOD’S WORD

One of the greatest single chapters ever written is the 119th Psalm. In this rich passage, David extols the value of the Word of God. If we could imitate his attitude and love toward the Word of God, we would be much better off.

Why did the Psalmist love the word of God?

Because it will help young people succeed in life. Notice verse 9, “Wherewithal shall the young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word.” David makes the point that young people can do what is right and please God in the days of their youth. Today, our culture states blatantly that the young are going to do wrong (commit what is commonly held as immoral acts; drinking, dancing, fornicating, drugs, etc.), regardless of what is taught to them in childhood. God through David denies this lie (cf. John 8:44). David’s son Solomon wrote “Remember now thy creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them” (Eccl. 12:1).

Even in the church the impression is sometimes left that it is “normal” for young people to leave the Lord and live like the world once they leave their parents’ home. While it may occur more often than it should, it is never acceptable to God and should not be condoned in any way by the church (Gal. 6:7-8; Eph. 6:11).

Because it will complete what is missing in a man. In verse 10 David writes, “With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments.” Most people live empty lives. They search for meaning in all the wrong places. Notice the counsel of Solomon, “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Eccl. 12:13). If we go through our days on the earth without God, we haven’t truly lived. The key to David’s life was the fact that he sought God with his “whole heart.” We too must be completely given to learning, loving and living the will of God. Some people know just enough Bible to be miserable. May we love the Lord and His word enough to follow Him wherever He may lead (Luke 6:46).

Because it was a constant to which he could always turn. In verse 11 we find, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart that I might not sin against thee.” Once we truly understand that the message of the Bible is from God and for our benefit, our lives become more stable (II Tim. 3:16,17). God has given us instructions to help us deal with every facet of life; every difficulty; every dark day (II Tim. 2:15; Psalm 23). We can overcome all obstacles with His divine guidance through His word (Phil. 4:13). In a world that is constantly changing and often seems to be leaving us behind, it is tremendously comforting to know God does not change and His glorious message of truth will continue to give us freedom (John 8:32).

Because it brings joy to the recipient. David is exuberant in the knowledge that with God’s guidance, life makes sense. Notice verse 16, “I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.” Joy and pleasure are not always the same thing. We typically view that which makes us happy (brings joy) as good. But true happiness is much deeper and more lasting than a moment’s pleasure. (As a side note, God is not against us having pleasure — in fact a faithful child of God should also have a very good life, John 10:10). David has a great attitude when it comes to the word of God. Far too many people have a poor attitude concerning the Bible, mainly because they do not wish to have their lives directed by (interfered with — per their view) anyone but themselves. David knew that he was in need of God’s help (as are we all whether we wish to admit it or not).

Notice verse 97, “O how I love thy law! It is my meditation all the day.” He loved the instruction that he received. In verse 172 he adds, “My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.” When we comprehend that God gave us His word to help us (not to hinder us), our attitude will be better and our hearts more receptive to His guiding hand.

Because it will guide us all the way to heaven. In verse 105 we read, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” The word of God will help us and direct us in the hard times of life. Many grope in darkness when the light of Jesus is just a moment away (Matt. 5:13-16).

May we imitate the attitude of the Psalmist in relation to the word of God.

Michael Light