by Dr. Al Hearne II

This seventh shore excursion is the third in a series of four devotions aimed at understanding the foundation of Scripture to accept God's truth fully.

 

Shore Excursion 7 - Is God's Word Eternal?

 

Psalm 119:160, "The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever."

Psalm 119 is a beautifully written Psalm emphasizing the importance of God's Word. It is the longest chapter in the Bible, consisting of 176 verses, divided into 22 stanzas of eight verses each. Each verse in a stanza begins with this same letter of the Hebrew alphabet, starting with the first letter aleph in the first stanza and ending with the last letter tov in the last stanza. Each verse focuses on God's Word, allowing the entire Psalm to highlight the psalmist's deep reverence for God's Word. It emphasizes the importance of God's Word, reflecting on its authority, wisdom, and significance in the life of a believer.

Psalm 119:160 provides a profound insight into two key elements of God's Word: its truth and eternal nature. The first half of the verse proclaims, "All your words are true." The psalmist is confident in the integrity of every Word spoken by God. God's truth is not subjective or fleeting; it is an objective reality that stands firm regardless of time or culture. God's words are the ultimate measure of truth because they come from His divine nature. God's Word does not change, waver, or deceive. As Jesus Himself declares in John 17:17, "Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth."

The second half of the verse, "all your righteous laws are eternal," points to God's Word's unchanging and enduring nature. God's laws and commands are not bound by time or circumstance. They apply to all people of all time. While human laws and philosophies may change with the passing of generations, God's Word remains a solid foundation. It transcends human history and culture, offering wisdom and guidance that are always relevant.

 

What does this mean for us today?

For us today, Psalm 119:160 reminds us that God's Word is not just a historical document or a set of guidelines to follow when convenient. It is the eternal truth by which we are to live every day. When we face the shifting sands of modern culture, where truth seems relative and moral standards are constantly changing, God's Word provides a steadfast anchor. It offers the truth we need to live righteous lives, and its teachings never become obsolete. Understanding the eternal nature of Scripture means recognizing that it is just as relevant today as it was when written. It continues to guide our faith, conduct, and way to eternal life.

 

Reflective Practice

How does knowing that all of God's words are true and eternal shape your daily decisions and actions?

Are there any areas of your life where you find it challenging to accept or apply the eternal truth of Scripture?

How can you cultivate a deeper trust in the unchanging nature of God's Word, especially when faced with the pressures of modern culture?

 

Concluding Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you for your Word, which is true and eternal. Help us to rely on the unchanging nature of your righteous rules as our guide in all areas of life. When we struggle to understand or apply your truth, give us the wisdom to understand and the strength to submit to your eternal Word. Let us live in a way that reflects the unshakable foundation of your truth. In Jesus' name, Amen!

 

[image, Living and Active, was created by DALL·E.]