If a person really loves God, that person will truly love His word. That’s even what Jesus said: “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). While a distinction can be made between God and His word, the two can’t be divorced from one another nor should they be separated. Scripture is God’s revelation of Himself – His greatness, beauty, power and will. To neglect or reject God’s word ultimately is to neglect or reject Him! We are to love, respect, internalize and obey God’s word because we love and desire to honor the Author!
Few passages bring this out with the depth and richness of Psalm 119. The inspired writer finds his “delight” in God’s commandments which he “loves” (vs. 47). Notice the results of this “love affair” with God and His word.
1. Because We Love God and His Word, we will be grateful, praising Him for the treasure of His revelation, and we’ll joyfully meditate on it (vs. 48).
2. Because We Love God and His Word, we’ll think about and ponder Scripture throughout the day (Psalm 119:97). We saturate ourselves with God’s will.
3. Because We Love God and His Word, we’ll hate double mindedness and hypocrisy (Psalm 119:113).
4. Because We Love God and His Word, we will contemplate how the wicked discard Him – and how God will judge them.
5. Because We Love God and His Word, we will esteem God’s word as far more precious than pure gold (vs. 127).
6. Because We Love God and His Word, we humbly and thankfully acknowledge God’s promises are tried and true (vs. 140).
7. Because We Love God and His Word, we come to see His steadfast love even more and are revived and strengthened (119:159).
8. Because We Love God and His Word, we hate and detest falsehood (vs. 163).
9. Because We Love God and His Word, we have great peace and do not stumble (vs. 165).
10. Because We Love God and His Word, we keep His testimonies in all our ways (vs. 167).
How marvelous it would be if more of us had a Psalm 119 type of love affair with God and His word!
-Mike Vestal
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