March 23 | Bible in a Year: Joshua 13–15; Luke 1:57–80

Why Do This?

The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. Psalm 19:7

READ Psalm 19:7–11

As I was helping my twelve-year-old grandson, Logan, with some tough algebra-type homework, he told me of his dream of becoming an engineer. After we returned to figuring out what to do with the x’s and y’s in his assignment, he said, “When am I ever going to use this stuff?”

I couldn’t help but smile, saying, “Well, Logan, this is exactly the stuff you’ll use if you become an engineer!” He hadn’t realised the connection between algebra and his hoped-for future.

Sometimes we view Scripture that way. When we listen to sermons and read certain parts of the Bible, we may think, “When am I ever going to use this?” The psalmist David had some answers. He said God’s truths found in Scripture are effective for “refreshing the soul”, “making wise the simple” and “giving joy to the heart” (Psalm 19:7–8). The wisdom of Scripture, found in the first five books of the Bible as referred to in Psalm 19 (as well as all of Scripture), helps us as we daily rely on the Spirit’s leading (Proverbs 2:6).

And without the Scriptures, we’d lack the vital way God has provided for us to experience Him and better know His love and ways. Why study the Bible? Because “the commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes” (Psalm 19:8).

By Dave Branon

Why is the wisdom found in Scripture relevant for you today? How can you grow in your understanding of it?

Loving God, please make Your Word a light to my path. Help me to use the wisdom of Scripture to direct my steps and grow to love You more.

SCRIPTURE INSIGHT

While the specific occasion for writing Psalm 19 isn’t stated, it’s been suggested that as a shepherd boy tending sheep, David was awed by the immensity and beauty of the open skies. So inspired, the psalmist celebrates the splendour of creation: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands” (v. 1). He points us to the creator God who’s worthy of honour and worship. David reflects on how He has revealed Himself to humanity so that we can know Him. First, He reveals Himself through His created works (vv. 1–6 ). He also reveals Himself through the Scriptures (vv. 7–14). Speaking of God’s self-revelation, Bible expositor Warren Wiersbe writes: “The heavens declare God’s glory, and the Scriptures declare His grace.” In this passage, Scripture refreshes the soul, gives wisdom and joy, and enlightens those who would obey it, guiding them into godliness.