In (Psalm 119) the psalmist equates rejoicing in the Scriptures on par with being as desirable as having great riches. Just consider the following three verses:
“I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches.” (Psalm 119:14)
“The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.” (Psalm 119:72)
“I rejoice at Your word As one who finds great treasure.” (Psalm 119:162)
As one reads (Psalm 119) we get the feeling that the psalmist has developed a love affair with the Word of God. Over and over again he desires for the Lord to teach him His decrees. Throughout the psalm the psalmist longs to meditate on God’s commands. And throughout the psalm our wonderful author shares that the law of the Lord is his delight. Whenever I read this amazing psalm I personally find that the love level, excitement value, and encouragement, that its verses deliver, simply blows me away, and causes me to also greatly rejoice in the Word of God.
So just what is it that allows the Holy Scriptures to generate such joy as we read them? Well first, they are full of nuggets of absolute wisdom. Second, by hiding Scripture in our hearts, these anointed words can keep me from sinning. Third, the New Testament portion of the Bible helps me learn more about the great love of my life – Jesus Christ. Fourth, the Holy Scriptures provide me with everything I need to be my training grounds for eternity. Fifth, when I meditate on the Word I get to enter into the very presence of the Lord where I find fullness of joy. And sixth, I have learned that only God’s commands, and my obedience to them, can provide me with great peace; even during the trials and storms of life.
My friends the Bible is full of wondrous things. Reading the Word is like going on a great treasure hunt and mining for nuggets of true gold and incomparable wisdom. No wonder the psalmist proclaims: “Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law.” (Psalm 119:18).
May I challenge you to go on a joy expedition by reading this awesome psalm. I guarantee its 176 verses will get you more excited to read your entire Bible and help you to fall more in love with Jesus!