Benefits of God's Word

 

      In Psalm 119 almost every verse extolls the benefits of knowing and obeying God's Word.  Some of these benefits are listed below. 

[Verses are taken from The New Living Translation]

     HAPPINESS--Psalm 112a, "Happy are those who obey his decrees.

      PURITY--Psalm 119:9, "How can a young person stay pure?  By obeying your word and following its rules."

      KEEPS US FROM SINNING--Psalm 119:11, "I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."

      SHOWS US THE TRUTH--Psalm 119:18, "Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your law."  Psalm 119:91a,  "Your laws remain true today."

      WISDOM--Psalm 119:24, "Your decrees please me; they give me wise advice."  Psalm 119:98, 99a, 100a,  "Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for your commands are my constant guide.  Yes, I have more insight than my teachers.....I am even wiser than my elders, for I have kept your commandments."

     HOPE--Psalm 119:43b,  "My only hope is in your laws."

      FREEDOM--Psalm 119:45,  "I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments."

      COMFORT--Psalm 119:50,  "Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles."

      RESTORATION and JOY--Psalm 119:93,  "I will never forget your commandments, for you have used them to restore my joy and health."

      ENLIGHTENMENT--Psalm 119:105,  "Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path."

      PEACE and STABILITY--Psalm 119:165,  "Those who love your law have great peace and do not stumble."

      In Psalm 119:54 the psalmist gives a lovely summary of what God's word has meant to him when he says,  "Your principles have been the music of my life throughout the years of my pilgrimage."

Father, thank You for Your Word.  It is truly music to our ears and hearts and shows us how to live a full, rich, and meaningful life. 

Amen.