Transformed by Truth: Remembering God's Word Psalm 119:93
Psalm 119:93 (NLT): "I will never forget your commandments, for by them you give me life."
Introduction
Today, we return to the rich treasure of God's Word, specifically Psalm 119:93. This verse reminds us of the life-giving power of God's commandments. As we explore this scripture, we'll examine three key points: the importance of remembering God's Word, the life-giving nature of His commandments, and the transformative power of His truth.
Point 1: The Importance of Remembering God's Word
Psalm 119:93a (NLT): "I will never forget your commandments..."
Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible and focuses extensively on the beauty and necessity of God's Word. The psalmist expresses a deep commitment to never forget God's commandments, which are integral to living a life pleasing to Him.
The Hebrew word for "forget" here is "shakach," which means to lose memory or attention. The psalmist's declaration is a commitment to keep God's Word at the forefront of his mind and actions.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NLT): "And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up."
Joshua 1:8 (NLT): "Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do."
We must intentionally remember God's Word by reading, studying, and meditating on it daily. This keeps His commandments alive in our hearts and minds, guiding our decisions and actions.
Consider a sailor navigating through rough seas. The compass is his constant guide, never to be forgotten. Similarly, God's Word is our spiritual compass, directing us through life's challenges.
Charles Stanley once said, "When we face difficult times, we can find strength in the Word of God. It is through remembering His promises that we find hope and assurance."
Point 2: The Life-Giving Nature of God's Commandments
Psalm 119:93b (NLT): "...for by them you give me life."
The psalmist acknowledges that God's commandments are not mere rules but life-giving instructions. They provide wisdom, direction, and spiritual vitality.
The Hebrew word for "life" is "chayah," which means to live, revive, or sustain life. God's commandments are a source of spiritual rejuvenation and sustenance.
John 6:63 (NLT): "The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life."
Proverbs 4:20-22 (NLT): "My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body."
We experience true life when we align ourselves with God's commandments. They bring healing, wisdom, and direction, enabling us to live in the fullness of His promises.
Imagine a tree planted by the riverside, its roots constantly nourished by the flowing water. In the same way, when we root ourselves in God's Word, we receive continuous nourishment and life.
Rick Warren wrote, "God’s Word generates life. It creates faith, produces change, frightens the devil, causes miracles, heals hurts, builds character, transforms circumstances, imparts joy, overcomes adversity, defeats temptation, infuses hope, releases power, cleanses our minds, brings things into being, and guarantees our future forever."
Point 3: The Transformative Power of God's Truth
Psalm 119:93 (NLT): "I will never forget your commandments, for by them you give me life."
The psalmist's commitment to remembering God's commandments and acknowledging their life-giving power underscores the transformative impact of God's truth.
The transformative power of God's Word is a recurring theme in Scripture. The commandments not only guide but also transform us into the likeness of Christ.
Romans 12:2 (NLT): "Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect."
2 Corinthians 3:18 (NLT): "So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image."
As we immerse ourselves in God's Word, we are continually transformed. Our thoughts, attitudes, and actions align more closely with His will, reflecting His character to the world.
Consider the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly. The process is gradual and transformative, resulting in a beautiful new creation. Similarly, God's Word transforms us, making us more like Christ.
John Piper noted, "The Word of God is not just to be known, but to be done. It has the power to transform the way we live, think, and interact with others."
Conclusion:
Psalm 119:93 teaches us to remember God's commandments, recognise their life-giving power, and embrace their transformative influence. As we hold fast to His Word, we experience a life full of purpose, direction, and spiritual vitality.
Call to Action:
Commit today to immerse yourself in God's Word. Let it guide, nourish, and transform you. Allow His commandments to shape your life, bringing you closer to Him and reflecting His glory.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your life-giving Word. Help us to remember Your commandments and to live by them daily. Transform us through Your truth, that we may reflect Your love and grace to the world. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Let us go forth, determined to remember, live by, and be transformed by God's Word. May His commandments guide us and His truth give us life.
