Psalm 19:1-14
Q.1. What is the message that the heavens send to the people of earth? Does God put the onus on us to see and hear this message? – (Ps.19:1-6 c.f. Rom.1:19-22)
The universe in the heavens constantly speaks forth – telling of the glory of God (Ps.19:1). It declares the handiwork of an amazing Designer, as – the work of His hands (Ps.19:1). You cannot contemplate the heavens, and at the same time ignore this evidence. This explains why scientists and astronomers theorize about this infinite wonder. Yet – there is no (actual) speech, nor are there words (Ps.19:3). For most of the world’s population – their voice is not heard or heeded (Ps.19:3). However, God holds us all accountable – 19 because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. 20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse (Rom.1:19-20). It is undeniable that … their utterances have gone to the end of the world (Ps.19:4). David had no such doubts about His Creator. He marvelled at the sun’s impact on earth, observing – there is nothing hidden from its heat (Ps.19:6). The majesty of the universe is not just a random appearance. It clearly testifies about the creativity of an infinitely wise God.
Q.2. What other revelation has God given to us? What does His Word do for us? Why is it so valuable? What is the purpose of God’s Word? – (Ps.19:7-14)
The immensity of the universe clearly points to God. Added to that is an especially targeted revelation to the heart of man – namely, the Word of God. God – spoke long ago to the fathers through the prophets in many portions and in many ways (Hebrews 1:1). David described this message variously in five ways – the law (i.e. teaching), the testimony, the precepts, the commandments, and the judgments of the Lord. These all require an attitude of awe of God (Ps.19:7-9). They are hugely beneficial for those who hear and heed God’s Word, because they – 7 … restore the soul; … make wise the simple. 8 … rejoice the heart; … enlighten the eyes. 9 … endure forever; … are righteous altogether (Ps.19:7-9). That is so, because the Word of God is perfect, sure, right, pure, clean, and true. David embraced the Scriptures as highly desirable like gold, and as sweet as honey – in keeping them there is great reward (Ps.19:11 c.f. Ps.19:10). He particularly valued the Word of God because it kept him from sin, corrected his faults, humbled his heart, and brought repentance and restoration – …Then I will be blameless, and I shall be acquitted of great transgression (Ps.19:13 c.f. Ps.19:11-13). The creation is like non-verbal communication that can be misunderstood. By contrast, the Word of the Lord is specific, and for David, a man after God’s own heart, it created a desire to live a life pleasing to God. He prayed – Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my rock, and my Redeemer (Ps.19:14).