Psalm 19
- The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.
- Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.
- There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.
- Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
- Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
- His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
- The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
- The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
- The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
- More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
- Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
- Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.
- Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
- Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.
Psalm 19 is a poetic reflection on the majesty of God as revealed in the natural world and through His law. The psalmist begins by marveling at the grandeur of the heavens, which proclaim the glory and craftsmanship of God without words. The celestial bodies, particularly the sun, are depicted as majestic and awe-inspiring in their movements and visibility across the earth.
Transitioning from the natural world to the spiritual, the psalmist extols the perfection and righteousness of God’s law. The law is described as converting the soul, imparting wisdom, rejoicing the heart, and enlightening the eyes. Its value is compared to precious metals and sweet honey, highlighting its desirability and nourishing effect on the soul.
Furthermore, the psalmist recognizes the transformative power of God’s law in guiding and warning His servants, as well as the need for personal introspection and repentance. They express a desire for purity and innocence before God, seeking His forgiveness and redemption.
In conclusion, Psalm 19 underscores the dual revelation of God through nature and His written law. It inspires reverence for God’s creative power and a deep appreciation for His moral guidance, while also emphasizing the importance of personal righteousness and devotion.