Have you ever used the phrase “It’s no wonder…” As I finished Psalm 119 this morning, I noticed the Psalmist’s use of this phrase. He is expressing something obvious here.
Your commandments give me understanding; no wonder I hate every false way of life. (Psalm 119:104, NLT)
The Psalmist says he hates every false way! This is more than just agreeing that false ways are bad; it’s that he hates every false way! How did he come to hate them versus only having a mental agreement that false ways are bad? His hatred came from God’s Word, which gave him true understanding. His hatred of false ways tells us he is not casual, neutral, or indifferent; he feels this down to his soul. The effect of God’s Word is amazing!
It’s no wonder, then, that those who are casual toward evil are even more so toward God’s Word. Someone who thinks lightly of evil has a very light influence from God’s Word in their life. The greater the influence of God’s Word, the greater the hatred of evil.
So, how great of an influence did the Word of God have in the Psalmist’s life? Within the same stanza as verse 104 above, he writes in verse 97, “I think about them all day long.” (NLT) Verse 98, “…they are my constant guide.” (NLT) Verse 99, …I am always thinking of your laws.” (NLT) It’s no wonder the Psalmist hates every false way!
The big question is, do we hate every false way? Those with understanding, do! That understanding comes from God’s Word. Those who love God’s Word love understanding. It’s no wonder they hate every false way!
Thank you for joining me as I read and journal chronologically through the Bible! This devotional reflection comes from Psalm 119:89-176.