Joy Gems

Joy, a Fringe Benefit of God's Word

Psalm 19:7-9 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the LORD are sure and altogether righteous. . . .

Do you notice the five synonyms for the Bible? The law of the LORD, the statutes, the precepts, the commands, and the ordinances are all another way of saying God's Word, our Bible. I would count the fear of the LORD as an attitude of reverence, but it is very closely tied to the Word too.

Each of these is like a facet of the Bible, showing it in another light, and what benefits we find if we saturate ourselves in the Word of the LORD God. These are all very good reasons to spend quality time studying it, mediating on it, and memorizing it.

For one, it is perfect, reviving our soul and giving us life. God's rules are trustworthy, obeying them will make us wise, even if we are not wise naturally. If we follow the advice in God's Word, we will have joy in our hearts. We will benefit emotionally!

We will benefit intellectually too, if we obey God's commands, for they will give us light and understanding.

Any healthy fear or reverence we give to God will last forever, and if you read further the next few verses tell more about how the ordinances (another word for laws) are more precious than gold and sweeter than honey. Obeying them will give us great reward.

PRAYER: Dear Lord God, I spotted that joy gem in among all those benefits of abiding in Your Word. If I spend time studying and applying Your instructions to me, I will experience the reward of joy. That is so good. Too often we get so methodical about our Christian faith and our study of 'theology' that we forget to enjoy it. I'm so pleased that You want us to have joy in our Bible study, and I do - when I get to it - I end up experiencing Your Joy!

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