Your Word in My Heart
Date: August 28, 2023
I use the BLESS method every morning for my devotional.
B - Bible Verse
L - Listen for God's Voice and pray
E - Explore the History and meaning
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases
S - Summarize and Share
You can read more about it by going to: What is a Faith Journal?
B - Bible Verse: "I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11
L - Listen for God's Word and Pray: "Dear God, as I approach Your Word, help me to open my heart and mind to receive Your teachings. May Your Word become a source of joy and guidance in my life."
E - Explore the History and Meaning:: Psalm 119 is a beautiful poem celebrating the value and power of God's Word. The author reflects on the benefits of knowing and meditating on God's precepts. He acknowledges the significance of internalizing God's Word. By hiding His word in their heart, they are safeguarding themselves from straying into sin. This practice leads to a life of obedience and alignment with God's will.
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases:
Hidden your word: This phrase implies a deliberate action of storing God's Word within oneself.
Heart: Refers to the innermost part of our being, where thoughts, emotions, and intentions reside.
Not sin against you: Highlights the power of God's Word to guide us away from actions that displease Him.
S - Summarize and Share:
When I read Psalm 119:11, it reminds me of the treasure that God's Word is meant to be in our lives. It feels like discovering a hidden treasure that's been waiting for us all along; like finding a precious gem buried within the depths of our own hearts. This verse speaks to the intimate connection between God's Word and our innermost being. It's not just about skimming through pages; it's about deeply embedding His teachings into the core of who we are.
Think of it this way…just like how we carefully tuck away a cherished keepsake in a special place, the psalmist describes how they've stored God's Word in their heart. It's a deliberate act of creating a safe haven, a sacred space where God's truths reside. And as we take this precious Word and internalize it, something remarkable happens. It becomes our shield, guarding us against the pitfalls of sin and helping us stay on the path that pleases God.
For me, this verse resonates on a personal level. There have been times when I've faced challenges or temptations, and I've found solace in recalling the words of Scripture that I've stored in my heart. It's like having a divine toolkit at my disposal, providing guidance, wisdom, and reassurance. As we encounter the complexities of life, God's Word serves as a compass, guiding us through stormy seas and helping us navigate with clarity and purpose.
Embracing this message reminds me that God's Word is not just an external guide but a cherished companion that dwells within. It's a source of comfort, strength, and joy. When we intentionally hide His Word in our hearts, we're cultivating a relationship that goes beyond mere knowledge. We're inviting His truth to transform us from the inside out, nurturing a life that reflects His love and grace.
Just as we find pleasure in precious gems and valuable treasures, the psalmist finds delight in storing God's Word in their heart. It's like keeping a precious keepsake close, a reminder of God's guidance and wisdom. By embracing His Word, we create a defense against the pitfalls of sin, nurturing a life that honors and pleases God. This verse encourages us to experience the joy of having God's Word as our constant companion, guiding us in every step and enriching our relationship with Him.
We have a few more days with this month’s theme of Finding Pleasure in God’s Word. Let's take a moment each day this week to store His truths in our hearts and invite His transformative presence to guide our thoughts, choices, and actions.
4 Bible Cross References:
Psalm 119:105 - "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."
Joshua 1:8 - "Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful."
Colossians 3:16 - "Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts."
Hebrews 4:12 - "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."