Henry David Thoreau wrote, “Only that day dawns to which we are awake.” Our fast-paced lifestyle may cause us to rush through life without realizing what is really important. The Psalmist gives us a reality check as he opens our eyes to God’s wondrous creation,

The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. (Psalm 19:1)

Everyday God displays His glory and presents to us the opportunity to see a beautiful sunrise or sunset. The night time provides an opportunity to see God’s creative work in the sky as we examine the constellations and, if we have a clear sky, we may see the splendor of the milky way. I’ve flown over the ocean on moonless nights and was astonished at the panoply of stars surrounding me. The amazing truth is that the stars we can see, are a mere fraction of the stars in our universe. One astronomer has asserted that there are more stars in the universe than grains of sand on our planet!

I have had the opportunity to travel extensively throughout the world and I never tire of the incredible geographical diversity of our planet. As you view heaven and earth, do you have a sense of wonder? One of the consequences of growing older is that we can lose our sense of wonder. It’s instructive to watch a young child and appreciate and even emulate their sense of wonder and excitement. Heaven and earth reveal the handiwork of God to create in us a sense of wonder and awe. Theologians refer to this as God’s general revelation.

The Psalmist then described God’s special revelation. Psalm 19 reveals God’s two great books – nature and scripture. In verses 7- 9, we read of six descriptive titles of God and His word, and six benefits to us:

  1. The law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul;
  2. The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
  3. The precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart;
  4. The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
  5. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever;
  6. The judgments of the Lord are true; they are righteous altogether.

Are you experiencing the benefits of God’s word? God’s word was so valuable to the Psalmist that he exclaimed:

They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. (Psalm 19:10)

God’s word is not only enjoyable, but he also noted the benefit for everyday life as we live in accordance with God’s word:

Moreover, by them Your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward. (Psalm 19:11)

May your eyes see God afresh in His works and His words:

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer. (Psalm 19:14)

Rick

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

Follow me on twitter:  rickhiggins5