God's glory is both evident and available to all those who seek Him. "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork," according to Psalm 19:1. On a recent flight, the view of the landscape of earth and the vastness of the heavens substantiated this glorious truth. It is absolutely amazing how people can twist their thinking to imagine it all "just happened."
However, in the next verses (7 through 11), God not only shows His glory in all creation, but clearly through His Word reveals His desire that His goodness and greatness be manifested in us.
The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul. This living truth restores and changes our fallen thinking and choices as well as our darkened emotions back to the pristine wholeness that man had when we were created in His image and likeness. This transformation is similar to the way the brown grass and bare trees turn green and exude fresh leaves in the Spring. Man becomes a new creation.
The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. As a man thinks, so is he. As we begin to think and imagine the ways of God and all He has done, we become like Him. He allows us to participate in His nature (2 Peter 1:4) and wisdom (1 Corinthians 2:16).
The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart. Our heart, our inner being, takes joy in the assurance that what we treasure and hold on to is pure and good, and above all, acceptable to God forever. Evil thoughts and emotions produce anxiety and frustration. The way of the transgressor is hard. But God's ways give peace and a clear conscience.
The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. Jesus said if the eye be single, the whole body is sound. When we "see" life through the vision of God's Word, our eyes are opened to see God as a loving Father who accomplished everything for us in Jesus, and who by His Holy Spirit is working everything for good in and through us. Enlightened, we see Him and how all He desires is designed to keep us joined to Him and able to enjoy His presence. Moreover, with this godly understanding all that flows from our hearts is giving thanks for who He is and all He has done. Likewise, our mind realizes that glorifying God in everything we do is all that really matters.
The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever. Fear of the Lord, defined as hatred of evil and love of righteousness, is why Jesus had more joy than any of his companions (Hebrews 1:9). What is awesome about this verse is that the cleanness and freedom from sin will be qualities that never end, but always remain a part of our innermost character. We shall be like Him.
The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether, more to be desired than gold; yea, than much gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them Your servant is warned, and in keeping them there is great reward. Not only does God use the Word to warn us about the trap of sin, He stirs up a fresh desire for the sweetness and eternal reward of living by the Word. Man does not live by bread alone, but by every Word from the mouth of God.
We are so blessed to know Him, to see His glory in creation, and to have His Word plant God's glory and likeness in our hearts. Take time to see and receive the Glory of God.
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