7 The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the Lord are sure, making wise the simple;
8 the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eyes; 9 the fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever; the ordinances of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. 10 More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey, and drippings of the honeycomb. 11 Moreover by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. 12 But who can detect their errors? Clear me from hidden faults. 13 Keep back your servant also from the insolent; do not let them have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression.
THOUGHTS:
God's laws are more to be desired then "much find gold." We tend to think of laws as merely a list of things we can't do. The law restricts us from speeding, killing, parking certain places, etc. To be sure, that's a common view of God's commandments too. People don't like that God made us how we are, then tells us "thou shalt not" do whatever you want.
Yet the psalmist rejoices in these "rules." Why?
Many of the decrees found in scripture aren't about controlling people, but rather they teach us how to live in community with each other. Maybe that's why, when asked what the greatest commandment is in Matthew 22, Jesus replied, "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."
Next time you are reading God's "rules" -- try reading them through a lens of love. Ask yourself, how does this commandment help me understand love? How does it help me share God's love with those around me?
PRAYER:
Lord, help us to see those around us as you do. Help us to love as you love. Help us to serve you with our whole selves, as Jesus did. AMEN.
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