Yesterday, we examined three important truths that emerge in Psalm 19:7. We learned that the Word of God is perfect, that it is the means of conversion and that God’s Word is reliable and trustworthy. God’s Word is the anchor that enables us to stand firm in a culture that scoffs at the notion of absolute truth.
Now notice three more principles that rise to the surface in the Scriptures. First, God’s Word brings joy to the heart. The psalmist writes, “The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart” (Ps. 19:8). John MacArthur adds:
Because it steers us through the right course of life, God’s Word brings great joy. If you’re depressed, anxious, fearful, or doubting, learn to obey God’s counsel and share in the resulting delight . . . Focus on divine truth. Therein you will find true and lasting joy. All other sources are shallow and fleeting. While temporary joy may certainly seem possible apart from God’s Word, true and lasting joy comes only as one subjects his or her mind to the truth of God’s Word.
Second, God’s Word is eternally true: “The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the LORD are altogether righteous” (Ps. 19:9). Time and again, the Scriptures bear witness to this fact. “All your words are true; all your righteous laws are eternal” (Ps. 119:160). “Your righteousness is everlasting and your law is true” (Ps. 119:142). The truthfulness of God’s Word remains constant despite those who seek to downplay the meaning of language or “deconstruct” objective truth recorded in God’s Word.
Finally, the Word of God gives us a standard to live by: “My heart is set on keeping your decrees to the very end” (Ps. 119:112). The Psalmist also writes, “I have taken an oath and confirmed it, that I will follow your righteous laws” (Ps. 119:106). Indeed, God’s Word is our divine blueprint for living. And God’s standard brings freedom to anyone who will submit to almighty God. “I will always obey your law, for ever and ever. I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts” (Ps. 119:44-45).
God has given us his Word in the form of propositional truth; truth that he intends we obey. Therefore, let us recommit ourselves to standing under the banner of God’s revealed truth and obey our great God with a glad heart. Let us refuse to compromise the high and holy standard in God’s Word. When the world tries to squeeze us into its mold, let us stand together with bold resolve and commit ourselves to be people of the Book.
Veritas et Lux 