Getting to Know God!

Psalms 19:7–11
» View this passage in NIV (Bible Gateway)

When we think of the law it is easy to think of it as something that keeps us from having fun. But here we see the opposite as it makes us wise, brings joy to the heart, gives light to the eyes, and rewards us (vv. 7-11). The previous verses were a disclosure of God in creation. Now we find Him disclosing Himself in the scriptures. The witness of the stars and the sun tells us something about God but if we are ever going to get to know Him personally it must be through Illumination of His Word. God’s Word speaks to life’s greatest areas of need and it does it in the following three ways:

1. It challenges us: (v. 7) God’s Word enlightens a mind darkened by the world’s philosophies and religions. It convicts and brings men back to the point where he was separated from God by sin. It brings wisdom, joy, radiance, and light.   
2. It cheers us: (v. 8) God’s Word rejoices the heart. Can you imagine having to face death and eternity without God’s Word? His Word takes away all uncertainty. It provides guidance for today and promises glory for tomorrow.   
3. It changes us: (vv. 9-10) God’s Word has a cleansing effect upon us. The man who once craved for gold now craves for God. Zaccheus would be an example of this fact as he met Christ the living Word and was changed. Where he once squeezed money out of the poor with exorbitant taxes he pledged to give half of his estate to the poor and to restore to every person he had wronged 400 percent. His ordinances are pure, eternal, sure, and righteous (v. 9). They are more precious than gold and sweeter than honey (v. 10). Living on the basis of the law has its own great reward (v. 11).

Application

I am thankful to God for how He has disclosed Himself in His Word and through his creation who He really is and what He has done for me. If it was not for His mercy, love, and grace I would still be in my sin and separated from Him throughout all eternity.