THE TRUE SOURCE OF WISDOM

 The New Atheism declares that belief in God has been irrevocably discredited by scientific understandings of the universe. Post-modernism proposes that there are no absolute values to guide personal behavior, just individual preferences. Humanistic psychology shuns concepts of guilt and shame as too destructive for contemporary human well-being. This psalm says just the opposite on all counts. It joyfully affirms the awesome wonder of God’s activity in creation, the transforming action of God’s Word in our lives and the therapeutic value of God’s forgiveness for our spiritual wholeness.

We know far more about the universe now than ever in history, but this surely gives us no less reason than the psalmist for believing that “the heavens declare the glory of God” (1). Our imagery of the stars and the sun might be different (1–6), but as we marvel again and again at new revelations of the immensity and complexity of the celestial world we can discern aspects of “God’s invisible qualities” (Rom. 1:20). Human regulations are often seen as guilt-inducing and freedom-restricting. In contrast, the multifaceted teaching of “the law of the Lord” (note the parallel descriptions of Torah) is unsurpassable in value and delicious to experience (7–10). Its many desirable qualities refresh, enlighten and transform. One imagines that God’s people took great heart from its wisdom and encouragement.

As Paul warns, human thinking can become futile and foolish hearts darkened (Rom. 1:21). We can reject God as Creator and ignore his life-guidance. Or we can heed his warnings and confess our willful ways (11–14). Only the latter brings the rewards of forgiveness, freedom from sinful inclinations and acceptable worship in the presence of God (10–14). It’s our choice!

How does God speak to you most meaningfully? Pray for open eyes, ears and heart to perceive God and respond.