Psalm 19:7-14 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 19:7-14 on biblegateway.com
Verse 7The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the Lord are sure, making wise the simple;
Verse 8the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eyes;
Verse 9the fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
Verse 10More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey, and drippings of the honeycomb.
Verse 11Moreover by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.
Verse 12But who can detect their errors? Clear me from hidden faults.
Verse 13Keep back your servant also from the insolent; do not let them have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression.
Verse 14Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Devotion
It’s a funnel again, a spiraling down. When Lutherans hear the word “law,” we think judgment, think burden, think death. The law drives us to the cross, where we meet our Lord and salvation. ‘Tis a holy use – but not the only.
The psalmist turns the funnel into a megaphone. This Older Testament community shouts and sings that the law revives the soul, makes wise; that it rejoices the heart and enlightens the eyes; that it is better than gold and sweeter than honey. Maybe we should think of it as “teaching” or “God’s kingdom life.” Whatever word we use, it gives life. Sweet.
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, revive my soul; give joy to my heart. You are Rock, you are Redeemer. Teach me to live like the redeemed today. Love through me and I will, I pray, live in your name. Amen.