The law of the Lord is perfect,[c]
reviving the soul;
the testimony of the Lord is sure,
making wise the simple;
8 the precepts of the Lord are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is pure,
enlightening the eyes;
9 the fear of the Lord is clean,
enduring forever;
the rules[d] 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.
Psalm 1:1-3
My children have only one question when we finish our food at the supper table, but they ask it in two different ways. One asks “What is for Dessert?” The Other simply says “Can I have candy?”
You may agree that after a good meal, a little sugary or sweet delight is absolutely delightful! Let me tell you, it is making my mouth water just writing this. Gooey Butter Cake (A St. Louis Specialty!), rich brownies, a Snickers bar, an ice cream sundae, a hot apple pie – is your mouth watery yet?
David, in Psalm 19, says that the laws, the rules, and the commandments of the Lord are as sweet as honey. They are like candy and dessert for us. Now, I don’t know about you, but when I think about God’s law and commandments, “sweet as honey” is not the first metaphor that comes to mind. Some may even call these teachings “sour” or “bitter” when they are confronted with their own guilty or thoughtless actions that were contrary to God’s law.
However, when we recognize that God’s law is what rules and guides all things – that he daily teaches us good from evil, right from wrong, blessing from curse – and most especially when he teaches us of our need for His son Jesus – we come to know that the Law of God is indeed good. God only corrects us as a loving father corrects, teaches, and guides his dearly beloved children.
This is why we read scripture. This is why we return to church week after week, day after day, year after year. This is why you are reading this devotion right now! God’s teachings are good for us! Even His law is good for us! Whether or not you are able to enjoy sweets and sugars each day, may you never need to diet from the sweet honey of God’s word! In fact, have another taste right now. Re-read the psalm section above – maybe even read the whole psalm. We can never have too much of the sweet Word of God!
Lord, teach me, guide me, mold me, form me, use me, forgive me, so that I may walk in your ways to the Glory of your Holy name, now and forevermore, Amen.
Written by: Pastor Koenig