PSALM 19
by Al Sanders
O NE of the most majestic portions of Scripture is the 19th Psalm. The first part of this, which we have been discussing in previous broad casts, deals with the creation of the universe by God. The first six verses concern the Lord’s revelation to man through nature, while Psalm 19:7-9 clearly shows Him in His righteous law. You see, the first section con siders the revelation of God through His works, but now we see Him re vealed in His Word. How beautifully the Scripture is put together! Now, while this is a thrilling thing to contemplate that this first book of God reveals Him basically in great ness through the glory of nature, the second aspect of Him comes from the Bible, truly the book of God. It’s in teresting to realize that throughout the Word of God two principal names are given to our Lord. There are many others, of course, but these are found frequently. F irst is the word, El, which means “the Creat or.” The second is “Jehovah,” which means the “Covenant Keeper,” the One who exhibits His unchanging love for us. Note, in the first portion of this chapter, the word E l is used. As an example, in the first verse when it refers to the glory of God, it is to Him as Creator. However, when we look at the second book, beginning with verse 7, we see that the word Lord is “Jehovah.” The Jews shrank from pronouncing His name, it was so sacred to them. The translators throughout the Old Tes tament, whenever this word appears, put “LORD” in capital letters. It’s a good way to remember. Beginning with verse 7 of Psalm 19, we have six statements in the original, each one of 10 words, and each giving us some different and pertinent truth about the Word of God. Various
shades of meaning are seen. For com parison , consider the 119th Psalm and underline the many dif ferent terms which are used for the Word of God. In each verse there is a different expression such as, “testimony,” “ways,” “p recep ts,” “statutes,” “righteous judgments,” “law,” “commandments.” This, of course, does not simply refer to the Ten Commandments, but rather to the entire counsel and truth of God. Psalm 19:7 tells us that God’s law is perfect; that is, there is no flaw or defect in it whatsoever. Man’s first necessity is to be con verted, reconciled to the Lord. To be converted means simply to “bring back” man’s spirit. The Bible re minds believers, “You who were dead in trespasses and sins hath he quickened” or made alive; He has brought man’s spirit in tune or fel lowship with Himself. He alone can refresh and nourish the inner life as food restores the body. We’re not going to find help watching TV or reading improper books. It’s the Bible we need. Here in the last part of Psalm 19:7 we are told “the tes timony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.” The term testimony refers to the divine witness as to what God is, and that it is sure in dicates its reliability, that it is worthy of being followed absolutely. Incidentally, you know, it’s said that man is reliable. In a sense this is true, if you consider that he lied once and he no doubt will lie again. So that means he’s “reliable!” This is not true of the Word of God. It will make wise the simple. Don’t let the term concern you, for it does not refer to intellect at all but means those who are humble. Too many people are proud of their humility. The familiar whimsical motto dubi- 7
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker