Delighting in the Pure Word

“In the way of your testimonies I delight
as much as in all riches.” Psalm 119.14

The psalmist again exclaims his praise for God’s Word by showing us his love for Scripture’s truth. The New Testament tells us, “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome” (1 John 5.3). The psalmist displays this love of God. He has sought after the Lord, stored up God’s Word in his heart, and he delights in the truths of Scripture.

To the one who loves the Lord, the one who treasures and obeys his Word, the testimonies and commandments of the Lord are not a burden. Rather, they delight him. They are an extreme delight, “as much as in all riches.” The Word of the Lord is his highest prize. He does not extol the worth of Scripture by comparing it to the lowly things of the world. He compares Scripture to the greatest of riches and still finds God’s testimonies more delightful.

What captures your highest affections? Christ taught that what a person treasures reveals their heart and encouraged his followers to pursue heavenly treasures (Matt.6.19-24). How do the affections of your heart—what you devote yourself to—show that you treasure God and his Word? How does your life indicate that you delight in God’s Word more than all riches?

Oh Lord, increase our delight in your Word. May our love for you show in our faithful devotion to your holy Word. May we delight in your testimonies more than all earthly riches.

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