Sweeter Than Honey

Observe. Psalm 19:7-9 uses six different terms for God's word: law, statutes, precepts, commands, fear of the LORD, and decrees. Each is paired with a quality and an effect. The law is perfect and refreshes the soul. The statutes are trustworthy and make wise the simple. The precepts are right and give joy to the heart. The commands are radiant and give light to the eyes. The fear of the LORD is pure and endures forever. The decrees are firm and altogether righteous. Verse 10 says they are more precious than gold and sweeter than honey, and verse 11 says that by them God's servant is warned and in keeping them there is great reward.

Interpret. The structure is deliberate. David is doing for Scripture what verses 1 through 6 did for the sky: turning it in the light so that every facet shows. God's word is not only true; it is refreshing, wise-making, joy-giving, illuminating, enduring, and righteous. The claim about honey is a claim about taste. Scripture is meant to be enjoyed, not just obeyed.

Apply. Which of the six effects do you most need this week, refreshment, wisdom, joy, light, endurance, or righteousness? When did you last find God's word sweet rather than merely correct, and what were you doing differently then? And what warning in Scripture have you been ignoring that verse 11 says is for your good?