HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW GOD'S WORD?

Today's promise: Blessings come from applying God's Word

How well do you know God's Word?

I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your principles. I have recited aloud all the laws you have given us. I have rejoiced in your decrees as much as in riches. I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways.

Psalm 119:11-15 NLT

Praise the Lord! Happy are those who fear the Lord. Yes, happy are those who delight in doing what he commands…such people will not be overcome by evil circumstances.… They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the Lord to care for them.

Psalm 112:1, 6-8 NLT

Rejoice over laws?

Psalm 119 is a long prayer that celebrates God's law. Why would anyone rejoice over laws? Most of us find laws restricting. They tell us what we can't do. But the psalmist praised God's laws. He even committed himself to memorizing them and reciting them aloud. Why was he so eager to learn God's ways? Because he had discovered that in these laws there is life! Sin separates us from God and from the fullness of life God offers. Those who reject God's law are on a path that leads to self-destruction and death. Knowing what God's law says can keep us from sinning against him.

As you approach God in prayer, ask him to teach you his Word. Ask him to show you how you should apply it to your life.

Adapted from The One Year Book of Bible Prayers (Tyndale House) entry for June 11

Content is derived from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation and other publications of Tyndale Publishing House