Psalm 119:130 (NIV)
The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.
We continue in Psalm 119 this morning, and again, I will put the verse in its surrounding section for context:
פ Pe
129 Your statutes are wonderful; therefore I obey them.
130 The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.
131 I open my mouth and pant, longing for your commands.
132 Turn to me and have mercy on me, as you always do to those who love your name.
133 Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.
134 Redeem me from human oppression, that I may obey your precepts.
135 Make your face shine on your servant and teach me your decrees.
136 Streams of tears flow from my eyes, for your law is not obeyed.
צ Tsadhe
137 You are righteous, Lord, and your laws are right.
138 The statutes you have laid down are righteous; they are fully trustworthy.
139 My zeal wears me out, for my enemies ignore your words.
140 Your promises have been thoroughly tested, and your servant loves them.
141 Though I am lowly and despised, I do not forget your precepts.
142 Your righteousness is everlasting and your law is true.
143 Trouble and distress have come upon me, but your commands give me delight.
144 Your statutes are always righteous; give me understanding that I may live.
As I meditate on these words this morning, I cannot help but imagine the inner feelings of those who penned these thoughts. I can just sense the intensity of zeal for the Word of God … for all of its instruction and wisdom in righteousness and order and goodness. This Psalm conveys a deep realization that God wants His people to know the truth and that He desires those who love Him to live according to it. And so there is a great hunger and thirst for the Word of God within us. It beckons us to learn and to apply and to be transformed!
Romans 12:2
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.
Hebrews 4:12
For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Lord Jesus, we thank you for your word this morning! We thank you for instruction in wisdom and the knowledge of righteousness! We praise you for the light you have brought into the world so that we might know you, the only true God. And we hold fast to your promise of eternal life for those who put their faith in you. I pray that your word will change us … transform us … conform us into your image. I pray that you would direct our footsteps according to your word and let no sin rule over us. May those who love you delight in your commands and do them. Let your grace abound, O Lord, so that we might obey your word. For I ask these things in your Name. Amen.
So Now You Know 