Wednesday, March 4, 2015

The Effect of God's Word

READ Psalm 19-20

After reflecting in depth on the general revelation of God himself in creation (19:1-6) and the specific revelation of God through his Word (19:7-11), David turns his thoughts to himself. He clearly sees that God’s Word does not cause him to be proud or boastful about his own life. Rather it produces a humility in response to his own awareness of sin and his humble desire to walk in the ways of God.

First, he demonstrates his awareness of his own sins. “Who can discern his errors? Declare me innocent from hidden faults. Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me.” (12-13a) Notice he is concerned for the times that he doesn’t know he is sinning (12) and the times that he does (13a).

Next, David anticipates the loving forgiveness of God: “Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression.” (13b) Only through God’s grace can he, or we, be blameless and truly innocent, for we are all sinners (Romans 3:23).

Finally, David cries to the Lord to protect him from sin and to make him pure in thoughts and words. “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” (14) Is that the prayer of your heart today?

Prayer: Lord, thank you that you have revealed yourself to all people in creation. No one has an excuse for not believing in you. And thank you even more that you have chosen to reveal yourself more intimately through your written Word. We would not truly know you if we did not have the testimony from you of who you are and what you have done. Help us to live according to your Word and honor you in all that we think, say and do.

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