King David rejoices in the sovereignty of God’s Word. Its very nature is effective in its purpose and working as it has power to produce its desired intent and effect. The prophet Isaiah touches and agrees with David, for God declares of himself through him (Isa 55:10-11),
“For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven
and do not return there but water the earth,
making it bring forth and sprout,
giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,
So shall my word be that goes out of my mouth;
it shall not return to me empty,
but it shall accomplish that which I purpose,
it shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”
God reveals himself to all men through “general revelation” which is seen in nature. David affirms this truth (v1)*, “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” All of humanity are granted this grace for Paul taught (Rom 1:20), “For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made…”
Then there is “special revelation” God provides through His written word, the Holy Bible which reveal the nature of his character and power. Those (who by faith in Jesus) look into the perfect law (read it) and live it out are blessed (Ps 1:1-3). In what ways you might ask? David offers the following:
- The Word revives the soul. It changes people. It transforms the lives of those who surrender and subject themselves to it. It grants us wisdom directly from our perfect God that leads to fullness of life. It produces reverence and right worship of him.
- The Word rejoices the heart. A person who meditates on God’s word (day and night) shall be filled with his joy that will be like a sustaining torch (unquenchable flame) even in the midst of our dark seasons of life.
His Word opens our understanding to our Creator, thus David says, “…enlightening the eyes…,” that we may see the true depths of our neediness for him and run to him for refuge of salvation in Christ Jesus. If we have faith in this Word, then we will take all these things spoken about God as absolute truth. The measure of our faith is seen in what we do next in our living. Let us trust in his Holy Scriptures, whose Author is perfect, sure, righteous and pure. Amen!
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D.
www.springoflivingwaters.com
*cf., Psalm 19