We often say “words matter,” and they do. Words can make you or break you, lift you up or put you down. But there’s one place you can go where all His Word, even His rebuke, will still build you up. I read somewhere where the writer said, even as the Lord rebuked or corrected His disciples, they were never offended, but they embraced every word He said. Why? Because the Words came from a heart of love and compassion. They were never meant to offend but to build up. The rebuke exposed the hidden agenda of Satan. As in the discourse of Jesus with Peter. In both instances Satan’s plans were exposed. Matthew 16:22-23; Luke 9:54-56 kjv
Today I’d like to explore some verses from the longest Psalm and chapter in the Bible. Every stanza is loaded with instructions, yearning and longings of the writer. If you’ve never read it through in its entirety, I encourage you to do so. We often quote very familiar verses without realizing that they’re all from this Psalm. I’ll only comment if the Teacher wants me to, because most is self explanatory. Get your coffee or tea and set time aside to bask in the beauty that is HIS WORD.
OUR PASSION
“You’re only truly happy when you walk in total integrity, walking in the light of God’s word. What joy overwhelms everyone who keeps the ways of God, those who seek Him as their heart’s passion! They’ll never do what’s wrong but will always choose the paths of the Lord. God has prescribed the right way to live: obeying His laws with all our hearts. How I long for my life to bring You glory as I follow each and every one of Your holy precepts! Then I’ll never be ashamed, for I take strength from all Your commandments. I will give my thanks to You from a heart of love and truth. And every time I learn more of Your righteous judgments, I will be faithful to all that Your word reveals— so don’t ever give up on me!”
Psalms 119:1-8 TPT
OUR JOY
“How can a young man stay pure? Only by living in the word of God and walking in its truth. I have longed for you with the passion of my heart; don’t let me stray from your directions! I consider your prophecies to be my greatest treasure, and I memorize them and write them on my heart to keep me from committing sin’s treason against you. My wonderful God, you are to be praised above all; teach me the power of your decrees!
I find more joy in following what you tell me to do than in chasing after all the wealth of the world.”
Psalms 119:9-12, 14
WE FIND LIFE
“Open my eyes to see the miracle-wonders hidden in your word. My life on earth is so brief, so tutor me in the ways of your wisdom. I am continually consumed by these irresistible longings, these cravings to obey your every commandment!
Your commandments are my counselors; your word is my light and delight!”
Psalms 119:18-20, 24
WE ARE REVIVED
“I’ve poured out my life before you, and you’ve always been there for me. So now I ask: teach me more of your holy decrees. Open up my understanding to the ways of your wisdom and I will meditate deeply on your splendor and your wonders.
Lord, don’t allow me to make a mess of my life, for I cling to your commands and follow them as closely as I can. I will run after you with delight in my heart, for you will make me obedient to your instructions.”
Psalms 119:26-27, 31-32
WE GAIN UNDERSTANDING
“Give me revelation about the meaning of your ways so I can enjoy the reward of following them fully. Give me an understanding heart so that I can passionately know and obey your truth. Guide me into the paths that please you, for I take delight in all that you say.”
Psalms 119:33-35
WE CAN TRUST
“May your tender love overwhelm me, O Lord, for you are my Savior and you keep your promises.
May I never forget your truth, for I rely upon your precepts. I will observe your laws every moment of the day and will never forget the words you say. I will walk with you in complete freedom, for I seek to follow your every command.”
Psalms 119:41, 43-45
WE CAN BE CONFIDENT
“Lord, never forget the promises you’ve made to me, for they are my hope and confidence. In all of my affliction I find great comfort in your promises, for they have kept me alive!
Your revelation-light is eternal; I’m encouraged every time I think about your truth!
Throughout the night I think of you, dear God; I treasure your every word to me. All this joy is mine as I follow your ways!”
Psalms 119:49-50, 52, 55-56
How are we doing? Is your heart burning by the WORD you’re experiencing? Let’s continue. Oh the glory of His presence in His written Word.
SATISFIED
“You are my satisfaction, Lord, and all that I need, so I’m determined to do everything you say. With all my heart I seek your favor; pour out your grace on me as you promised! When I realize that I’m going astray, I turn back to obey your instructions. I give my all to follow your revelation-light; I will not delay to obey.
In the middle of the night I awake to give thanks to you because of all your revelation-light; so right and true!
Give me more revelation of your ways, for I see your love and tender care everywhere.”
Psalms 119:57-60, 62, 64
OUR TREASURE
“Your extravagant kindness to me makes me want to follow your words even more! Teach me how to make good decisions, and give me revelation-light, for I believe in your commands.
Everything you do is beautiful, flowing from your goodness; teach me the power of your wonderful words!
The punishment you brought me through was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me your ways. The words you speak to me are worth more than all the riches and wealth in the whole world!”
Psalms 119:65-66, 68, 71-72
SELAH...To be continued
“When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, Lord God Almighty.”
Jeremiah 15:16 NIV
Father in the Name of Jesus I thank you for Your written Word. How blessed we are to be in a nation where we can still read Your Word without fear of imprisonments or death. May we not take for granted the season of grace that we have to do so. May we treasure it as a Pearl of great price. Many lives have been sacrificed to bring Your Word to print, and countless more are sacrificed just for having it in their possession. We are truly blessed. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who guides us into the truth of Your Word. In Jesus Name. Amen
Written by permission of the Holy Spirit
W. Tennant