God's
Revelation
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How can we gain knowledge, and know truth? Much can be discovered through science.
But science is limited. For example, science may explain how nature works, but
it cannot explain why it exists. Science cannot adequately address values, beauty,
morality, meaning, or the supernatural. There are realities beyond the reach of
science.
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If God is the ultimate reality beyond the material universe, he cannot be known
unless he reveals himself. "Revelation" is necessary to know truth about
God and his creation.
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"General revelation" refers to God's revelation to all persons at all
times and in all places. God reveals himself through nature, history, and human
consciousness.
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"Special revelation" refers to God's revelation to particular persons
at definite times and places. God has revealed himself in various ways in human
history, ultimately in the person of Jesus Christ. Scripture (the Bible) is recorded
special revelation. It is "God's word."
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Psalm 19:1-6 is concerned with "general revelation" (or "natural
revelation"). See Lesson 1. Psalm 19:7-11 is concerned with "special
revelation." God's
Instructions
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Read Psalm 19:7-14. The "law of the LORD" is a comprehensive
term for God's revealed will. It is God's word. God's word is perfect (complete),
trustworthy, right, radiant (pure), sure, and altogether righteous (vv. 7-9). 1.
According to verses 7-11, what are the benefits of God's instructions? Which benefits
are especially attractive to you?
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"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path" (Psalm 119:105). 2.
Many human beings view law, commandments and rules as too restrictive. Many believe
the greatest joy and satisfaction come from being entirely free to pursue their
own desires and ambitions without restriction (especially "religious"
restriction). However, God's instructions "give joy to the heart" (v.
8). They are "more precious than gold" and "sweeter than honey"
(v. 10). Why is this so?
Human
Response
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In the light of God's revelation, David knows he is prone (inclined) to sin. Some
sins are easily identified because they are "willful sins" (v. 13a).
Other sins ("errors") may not be clearly deliberate (willful, intentional)
but indicate impurity in the heart (v. 12).
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Because David understands the sin problem (which involves inner impurity), he
knows he needs God's grace and instruction. Only by God's grace and instruction
can David be "blameless" and "innocent of great transgression"
(v. 13).
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In his letter to the Romans, Paul makes it clear that a person cannot earn God's
approval by obeying the law. Though the law is holy, righteous and good, it is
not able to make a person right with God, because sinful people are not able to
obey the law (Romans 7:7-13). 3.
If obeying the law cannot make us right with God, what is the primary function
of God's instructions, based on Psalm 19:7-11? What is the motivation for following
them?
4.
How does this apply to the Christian life? How can we do better in learning, loving,
and living God's instructions for our lives? What practical steps can we take?
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David concludes with a praise offering to the LORD. Read verse 14. He desires
alignment with God's will both inwardly ("meditation of my heart") and
outwardly ("words of my mouth"). Each of us should desire this also!
Reflection/Application
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In your life, what is the basis of meaning, purpose, morality, and guidance in
life? Are you satisfied? If there is a personal God who made you (and there is!),
He is the basis for these things. Seek to know this God, and listen carefully
to His operating instructions.
†
As a Christian, does God's word "give joy to your heart?" Do you delight
in learning and applying God's instructions to your life? If not, pray that God
would change your heart. Over the next 11 days, read Psalm 119 (16 verses each
day). As you read, identify at least one thing for which you are thankful, and
meditate on it (think about it) throughout the day.
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