Creation, Scripture, and the Heart

Psalm 19's title says it is for the Chief Musician and is a Psalm by David. It moves in three steps: from the skies, to the Scriptures, to the heart. First, creation preaches. The heavens declare the glory of God. The expanse shows his handiwork. This speech has no words, yet there is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard. The sun, pictured as a bridegroom and a strong man running his course, crosses the sky, and there is nothing hidden from its heat.

Second, God speaks more clearly in his law. Six lines use six names for God's word: law, covenant, precepts, commandment, fear of Yahweh, and ordinances. Each is described as perfect, sure, right, pure, clean, or true, and each brings a gift: restoring the soul, making wise the simple, rejoicing the heart, and enlightening the eyes. These words are more to be desired than much fine gold and sweeter than honey from the honeycomb.

Third, the light of God's word shines into David's heart. Who can discern his errors? Forgive me from hidden errors. Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins. The psalm closes with a prayer believers still pray today: Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, Yahweh, my rock, and my redeemer. In the New Testament, Paul cites verse 4 when he writes about the message going out to the whole world (Romans 10:18).