Rejoicing In God’s Laws

I have hidden your word in my heart,

that I might not sin against you.

I praise you, O LORD;

teach me your decrees.

I have recited aloud

all the regulations you have given us.

I have rejoiced in your laws

as much as in riches.

I will study your commandments

and reflect on your ways.

Psalm 119:11-15

Psalm 119 is a long prayer that celebrates God’s law. Why would anyone rejoice over laws? Most of us find laws restricting. They tell us what we can’t do. But the psalmist praised God’s laws. He even committed himself to memorizing them and reciting them aloud. Why was he so eager to learn God’s ways? Because he had discovered that in these laws there is life! Sin separates us from God and from the fullness of life God offers. Those who reject God’s law are on a path that leads to self-destruction and death. Knowing what God’s law says can keep us from sinning against him.

As you approach God in prayer today, ask him to teach you his law. Ask him to show you how you should apply it to your life.

• Dear Lord, help me to hide your Word in my heart so that I might not sin against you . . .