Psalm 19

Read Psalm 19 ESV

Who - David sings a song to the LORD

What - David writes this choir song as a psalm of praise to the LORD.  It is also an instructional song.  It reminds the hearer and the singer that not only is God majestic and the whole universe displays His glory, but also that living in accordance to God’s law brings great blessing.  This song is also a petition to the LORD.  For it ends with David’s request that the LORD keep the singer from sin and give him heart of obedience.  As a choir song being sung in corporate worship, this psalm is meant for all faithful ones, who desire to live in covenant with the LORD.  

When - No specific time.  Possibly at or for a celebration.

Where - No specific location.  Most likely in Jerusalem.

Why - David’s motivation seems to be the desire to be obedient.  Also David wants to express thankfulness at how good and reliable God’s Word is.  Additionally David wants to praise the LORD for His goodness and majesty.

How - David follows a three step process in this psalm.  1) David praises and acknowledges the LORD’S majesty and awesomeness.  2) David describes the goodness of God’s law and the blessing of following it.  3) David asks the LORD to give him an obedient and listening heart.  

So What 

1. We can follow David’s pattern of praise to the LORD, acknowledgement of the goodness of the Word and request for an obedient heart.
2. We can see the power and majesty of the LORD in the created world around us.  We should ask for eyes to see the creation the way David saw it.  We should take the time to observe it, reflect upon it and praise the LORD for it.  
3. We should carry the same observing and reflective mind to God’s explicit revelation, His Word.  Both the Word as the Bible and Jesus as the Word made flesh.  
4. As a more personal reflection on this psalm, write down specific truths or times when the “law of the LORD” has revived your soul.