Thematic Selections from the Bible

Ps 19:7-14

7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.

8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.

9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.

10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.

12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.

13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.

14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.

Yesterday, we looked at the first 6 verses of Psalm 19 which spoke about the glory of God as revealed in creation - God’s witness in the physical world. The next 8 verses present God’s glory in His laws and precepts - His witness in His Word. His Word is given to man so that we can know how to live in order to please Him. We are exhorted to walk blameless before the Lord such that even our words and our thoughts are acceptable in His sight. Let God’s Word evoke our spirits to respond to Him.

What are the six aspects or characteristics of the Torah (Law) of the Lord that the Psalmist has listed? What role does each one has on us? What are the words used to describe the Psalmist’s sin? Do they mean the same thing? Look at the Hebrew explanation of the words in the note below. Reflect on the passage again and ask God to reveal Himself to you. Write down what the Holy Spirit has highlighted to you. Write down a commitment to God regarding His Word.

Note: Restoring – shub: to turn back, return, bring back Fear – yirah: a fear, reverence Error – shegiah: error, emphasis is on sin done inadvertently Hidden – sathar: to hide, conceal Presumptuous- zed: insolent, presumptuous, arrogant Redeemer – gaal: to redeem, act as kinsman, bought back