The unfolding of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple (Psalm 119:130)
Paraphrasing the above text provides additional insight into its truth. “The door-opening of your words; it shines understanding to those in need of instruction and learning.” The doorway of the Lord’s word enlightens.
Every day a pilgrim walks through the course of this life, a dry and thirsty land where there is no water. Darkened reasoning assaults the believer on every side. Vanities of pleasure, wealth, and power cry out to the embattled stranger, “Embrace me for I will be your satisfaction.” The ear and the eye have paraded in sight and sound the prides and sensualities of this earthly existence. Corruptible glories of the kingdoms of this life beckon. The showering of non-edifying, destructive music (“preaching”) is in every corner of the world. Spiritual wrestling from evil principalities bombard the warrior of the Lord tempting him to forsake the righteousness, truth, and gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Friends, relations, and even carnal believers converse in ignorance with this man who has a good report from the Lord. Sensitivities of heart and soul continually chasten and challenge this pilgrim. He cries in faith, “O wretched man that I am.” Brokenness is his constant companion. Affliction, shame, and tribulation walk alongside of him. He wonders, “Will these companions be transformed into ‘grace and glory’.” And besides all these, an evil, treacherous, and sinful nature strategizes for his downfall and captivity to its will—seeking to murder him. This dangerous present world is no friend to the pilgrim. Is there any hope and comfort in this darkened, cold, lifeless world?
Our answer lies in the Incarnate Word as revealed in the written Word. Our comfort is just a door away. Imagine your Bible on your nightstand as a doorway. The weary, worn believer lays down his armor after a long day at work or in the home. His hand by his side lays limp in exhaustion. The darkness of life seeks to flood and overcome the tired pilgrim. He knows that he must get away; not on a vacation, but into the presence of the Light. Strength, peace, comfort, and sight are just a door away. He moves and clasps with anticipation the Book of Life. His hand handles the knob. The stranger to this world opens the pages of His glory. The door opens and light is given. The glory of Christ is revealed and purifies the battled warrior. Joy strengthens his heart. Condemnation flees in the assurance of the blood of Christ, washing away all sin. As the songwriter proclaimed, “Heaven came down and glory filled my soul.”
My dear brethren, how do you view the Scripture? Do you know the feeding, joy, and comfort of that Word? How long has it been since your hand gripped the knob of the doorway and opened to the glory of the Lord? Your peace. Your strength. Your love. It is all just a door away. Go now to the light of unseen things. Believing and you will be transformed into His glorious image forever.
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