Missed service.. this is my devotion for this day.

The Psalm is divided into 3 main points.

- The Glory of God through Nature (vs 1 - 6)

- The Righteousness of God and His ways (vs 7 - 10)

- The Devotion of the Psalmist (vs 11 - 14)

The Glory of God through Nature

(Vs1) The psalmist David starts off strongly in the first verse, using the heavens and the firmament; 2 things that are absolutely wonders of nature and unfathomable in all its awe. Mankind has done a lot of research on the universe and the stars, but are far from fully understanding what lies light years away from our own planet earth. The earth, though we live on it, possess many more mysteries that we have not fully understood, and the very creations that live and exist around us such as the animals and geographical wonders still baffle scientists enough to bring up theories of evolution and years of geographic movement. Indeed, mankind can never be nearer, yet can never be further at the same time from the wonders of the heavens and the earth.

(vs 2-3) The use of night and day in the second verse seems to suggest that through their constant cycle, it is clear that something is in balance, in order, impossible to be by chance. There is not a day that passes where night and day does not come. The wonders of this daily pattern transcends all language barriers and is plainly understood by all. How can this be possible? This brings to mind the ancient civilizations (and some people today) who worship the Sun and the Moon as gods or deities. Clearly men know that there can only be something powerful that brings about such patterns and power. Not to mention the heat of the sun, its dawning and waning. The moon which affects the tides as well as stabilizes the rotation of the Earth. Little do men know that it is not the "supernatural" powers of the sun and moon that are to be worshipped, but the Creator behind them.

(vs 4-6) The psalmist mentions the line of day and night, in which is the tabernacle for the sun. Could this be a reference to the idea of orbits, whom we now know today to be true. Indeed, the circuits that the planets run (or in this case, the sun running relative to the world across the horizon) could well be referred to in these verses. There is no place that is not covered by the sun, no place that does not experience sunlight and its warmth. This simply means that all the world would have experienced and acknowledge that there is indeed a God in heaven.

(vs 7-9) Here the psalmist describes the law, testimony, statutes, commandment, fear, and judgments of God. He describes them as things that perfect a man. It converts a man's soul, bringing him back into a rightful relationship with God. It makes wise the simple, allowing even the most uneducated to be called wise (by God's standard, Job 28:28), it is certainly not the wisdom of man, education and worldy knowledge (1 Cor 3:19). It rejoices the heart, knowing that they are righteous in His sight. It enlightens the eyes, giving man clarity to God's infinite wisdom in the reasons behind each of His commandment that we should follow. It is enduring forever, without decay, for it is fully pure and righteous in His eyes, and will never fail. It is true and righteous, for what else could come from a God that cannot lie and is the embodiment of holiness?

(vs 10) The psalmist here plainly prices them far above the other riches and delicacies of the world. For a king like David who has all he wants, he shows us that all his worldly riches are nothing compared to the spiritual things, such as the fear of the Lord. Indeed, all Christians have to strive for each of these, for it is in them that we find life and true happiness. This is echoed and simply concluded in Mt 6:33 "seek ye first the kingdom of God, and its righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you".

(vs 11) In all the greatness and beauty of the things spoken of above, the Psalmist treats them as a warning. It is a constant reminder to the servant of God to always be aware of his duty, to be vigilant in seeking God and His righteousness. He speaks of the great reward, which may mean entrance to heaven at the Last Day, or simply generically including all the other great blessings that come with being God's child and following after Him faithfully. Indeed, I am blessed to be called His child, for I have been well blessed with many things, far more than I can hope for.

(vs 12-13) The psalmist calls for deliverance and protection from both secret and presumptuous sins. Clearly, men (and Christians) alike struggle with sin each day. And we are subject to temptation into committing both forms of sin, each equally harmful to our spiritual health. And indeed we need deliverance and the help of God. God never told us to fight alone by ourselves, for He makes it clear that we fight with Him alongside or ahead of us. Because of that we have to acknowledge that without Him we are nothing against the devil, but with Him, the devils will flee before our sword. There is no weakness in reliance on God, but yet why do men stubbornly believe they do not need God? That is what we have to reflect on.

(vs 14) The psalmist closes by praying that his utterance, his thoughts, and his actions be acceptable to the Lord. We have to be aware of this each day that our actions are being taken note of; each sin recorded, and each a death sentence to our soul. We have to constantly repent and examine ourselves that we do not sin and are still on the path of righteousness, bearing towards heaven. It is not to ourselves to judge, nor fellow men, but God who has set His law that we may know through His Word, the bible. God is indeed sovereign. Amen.

Indeed, this was a fitting passage for me to study during this devotion. Ot just applied so well to my current spiritual and physical state. Having been so far removed from the local congregation in Jurong, in a flash I have not properly attended a single service for at least 3 weeks. And indeed I have to admit that I am weakening spiritually. At least my daily prayers to God bring me back in conversation with God, but yet I am afraid that my sins have put a wall up between us. Indeed I recognise my sin and the greatness and majesty of God. I see it everywhere in my travels. And I once again have to rededicate my life to Him.

Be with me Lord, lest I stray from your way. Forgive me Lord, for I have put you on the backseat. Strengthen me Lord, as I continue in this environment of temptation. And deliver me Lord, from each episode I encounter. Amen.