Psalm 119:97-104: What Makes the Bible So Special?
June 13, 2022
TODAY'S BIBLE READING:
1 Kings 21-22, Psalm 119:97-104, Luke 4:31-37, Ephesians 6:10-24
What is it that makes the Bible so special? Many different answers could be given to that. One of the clearest is found in the Coronation Oath sworn by the Queen of England in 1953:
“We present you with this Book, the most valuable thing this world affords Here is Wisdom Here is the royal Law These are the lively Oracles of God.”
But as profound as those statements are, the Bible itself has words that surpass them when it describes itself. Famously, 2 Timothy 3:16 says:
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
The psalm in front of us this morning, though, takes the subject from a different tack again. Here, the psalmist gives three practical reasons why he “loves God’s law.”
1. Wisdom: “Your commandment makes me wiser…” (119:98)
God’s Word is able to make you wiser than your enemies. The study of God’s Word is the way to become wise. Surely then the Bible is worth studying!
2. Holiness: “I hold back my feet from every evil way…” (119:101)
God’s Word, when combined with faith and the power of the Spirit, is able to motivate us and inspire us to become more like Christ. Surely then the Bible is worth reading!
3. Delight: “How sweet are your words to my taste…” (119:103)
God’s Word is experientially, affectionally sweet! Surely the Bible is worth meditating upon! Therefore, read the Bible!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Josh Moody (Ph.D., University of Cambridge) is the senior pastor of College Church in Wheaton, IL., president and founder of God Centered Life Ministries, and author of several books including How the Bible Can Change Your Life and John 1-12 For You.
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