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
In the world, which seems to grow more violent every day, where boundaries blur and healthy morality is mocked, the psalmist shatters the illusion that anything goes. “The law of the Lord is perfect,” the writer cries. It revives, makes wise, enlightens and more!
God’s law was given to guide us, to help us live with and for each other, not to make life miserable! Indeed, as we follow God’s ways, we see the law as God’s gift, for it drives us to Christ. The law does not save, only Christ does! As Christ works His saving work within us, we are set free to live. We are not bound by the law, but energized to live as “law-abiding” citizens of the Kingdom of God on earth. What irony, we are freed from the law of sin and death to serve as people who “keep” the law!
Prayer
Grant, O Lord, that all we say and do may honor You and help usher in Your kingdom; through Christ our Lord. Amen.