PrayerBits for Friday

PrayerBits

A bite sized devotional program
produced by the West Side Presbyterian Church

Friday

Scripture Lesson: Psalm 19 The fear of the Lord

Time to reflect: The word translated as “fear” has no direct English translation. It does include the idea that we should worry about crossing God, God is all powerful. But it also includes “respect,” “awe and amazement,” and recognizing our subordinate position in the relationship. Modern people object to “fearing” the Lord as in quaking in our boots fear. But the underlying concept, in Hebrew, is much bigger than that.

Moving Throughout the day: Try praying to God using the language and attitude you might have if you were addressing the corporation CEO or the President of the United States, or Queen of England. How did that feel?

Psalm 19

God’s Glory in Creation and the Law

To the leader. A Psalm of David.
1The heavens are telling the glory of God;
   and the firmament* proclaims his handiwork.
2Day to day pours forth speech,
   and night to night declares knowledge.
3There is no speech, nor are there words;
   their voice is not heard;
4yet their voice* goes out through all the earth,
   and their words to the end of the world.

In the heavens* he has set a tent for the sun,
5which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy,
   and like a strong man runs its course with joy.
6Its rising is from the end of the heavens,
   and its circuit to the end of them;
   and nothing is hidden from its heat.

7The law of the Lord is perfect,
   reviving the soul;
the decrees of the Lord are sure,
   making wise the simple;
8the precepts of the Lord are right,
   rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is clear,
   enlightening the eyes;
9the fear of the Lord is pure,
   enduring for ever;
the ordinances of the Lord are true
   and righteous altogether.
10More to be desired are they than gold,
   even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey,
   and drippings of the honeycomb.

11Moreover by them is your servant warned;
   in keeping them there is great reward.
12But who can detect their errors?
   Clear me from hidden faults.
13Keep back your servant also from the insolent;*
   do not let them have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless,
   and innocent of great transgression.

14Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
   be acceptable to you,
   O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.