Psalm 19:7-11 / What We Value Most

If you’ve ever been to Washington D.C., you’ve likely visited the Smithsonian Institution—a group of museums and research centers that tourists flock to. And deep within one of those museums lies a national treasure—the Hope Diamond. Due to its incredible size (45 carats) and its rare, deep-blue hue, the Hope Diamond is valued at over three hundred million dollars. This begs the question—Where does this value come from? 

In Psalm 19, David, the shepherd boy-turned-king shows us where true value lies:

“The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;…more to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter than honey and dripping of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.”

As king over Israel, David had tasted of royalty and riches; and yet, what he valued most were the true and lasting riches found in the Word of God. More than any other reward or gain in life, David sought the true and lasting value of God’s law and commandments.

Psalm 19 teaches us that true and lasting value comes from knowing God and walking with Him. Which begs the question—what do we value most? Is it riches, health, comfort, control or any other worldly values? The Psalms show us true life is found in treasuring God and His Word.

It’s been said that the way we spend our days is the way we spend our lives. Each passing moment, our attention is directed toward what we value and prioritize most; over time, these passing moments accumulate to make up a lifetime. What will our life say we value most? 

As we live this moment-by-moment life, making countless choices of value and priority, the psalmist would remind us of the surpassing value of the Word of God above all else—more valuable than any jewel, sweet to the soul, and helpful to make us wise. 

What do I value most in life?

What do my actions and behaviors say I value most?

Blessings,
Pastor Kevin G