2 Kings 8-9, Psalm 119:129-136, Luke 5:17-26, Philippians 2:1-11

Psalm 119:129-136:

Sometimes perhaps you ask yourself if it is really worth getting up early or staying up late to read the Bible. When there are so many other things going on in your life, so many pressures, and such business and demands, is it really worth using your precious time to read the Bible? Or, what makes the Bible so “wonderful” (119:129)?

This section of the psalm interweaves two answers to that question, and then because of those answers, the psalmist is passionately committed to the Bible. The two answers he interweaves are: #1 It gives us understanding. “The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple” (119:130). If we want to understand life, then we will read and study the Bible. #2 It shapes our character. “Keep steady my steps according to your promise, and let no iniquity get dominion over me” (119:133). And because the Bible has this wonderful impact, the psalmist greatly desires God’s Word.

“Your testimonies are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them” (119:129).

“I open my mouth and pant, because I long for for your commandments” (119:131).

“Make your face shine upon your servant, and teach me your statutes” (119:135).

Indeed, he is also desperate that others would also long for God’s Word as he does:

“My eyes shed streams of tears, because people do not keep your law” (119:136).

Let the truth of this psalm persuade you that the Bible is indeed “wonderful,” and therefore to take the time to ask God to help you understand the Bible and to read it and have your life impacted by it.