TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE

 Please read Psalm 119:121–128

Therefore, I love Your commandments

Above gold, yes, above pure gold.

Psalm 119:127

DEVOTIONAL

by Sandra Chua

Who likes rules? I am following an exercise video, and the instructor said, “There are no rules!” Who likes to be constrained by rules? We like to be free to do what our hearts desire. Why do we hate rules? Aside from limiting our freedom, at the back of our minds, we are probably thinking that the people making these rules just want to make our lives harder. 

Reading Psalm 119,  I came across several verses that expressed the love for rules, commandments, testimonies, statutes, etc. “Wow! This must be a really good person,” I thought. What makes this Psalmist love God’s commandments that he should treasure it not only like gold but “above” gold?

Mulling over this idea, I found the answer through verses interspersed throughout the chapter. Verse 123 says, “My eyes fail with longing for Your salvation and for Your righteous word.” He knew God was capable of saving him. He knew God was righteous.  Verse 124a says, “Deal with Your servant according to Your graciousness.” He knew God was gracious. Verse 125b says, “…give me understanding.” He knew wisdom comes from God. Verse 126, “It is time for the Lord to act, For they have broken Your Law.” He knew God is just. He will punish law-breakers.

The Psalmist went back to the One who made the commandments, the One who instituted the statutes, the same Gracious One (v. 124). The God who is just and has decreed these things to make my life not harder but better. He has given these rules to protect, guide, and make me wiser. He loves God’s rules because he knows his God. How well do you know yours?

 

PRAYER