Scripture for Today: Psalm 119:92-93 “If Your Law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction.  I will never forget Your precepts, for by them You have preserved my life.”

In every large boat I have ever traveled in, there have been life preservers.  Of course, the law requires it.  The California law requires not only life jackets but a life preserver (or throwable device) if the boat is over sixteen feet long.  They need to be easily accessible but no one wants them in plain view.  No one wants to think about capsizing.

Our verse for today describes God’s Law and precepts as preserving a life.  Our troubles and afflictions can feel overwhelming.  The weight of sadness and worry threatens to submerge us.  Life seems manageable until that unexpected wave of trouble blindsides us.  Suddenly, all goes dark and we are underwater.

The psalmist had no time in the middle of a catastrophe to pull out God’s Word.  God’s Law and precepts were already known and were his delight before disaster struck.  They were firmly planted in his memory and easily recalled at the very moment he needed them.  It was in remembering and applying God’s Law that he was able to survive his trial.  They were his life saver or life preserver.

I cannot anticipate what hard thing may happen tomorrow or the next day.  But I can be ready for whatever comes by knowing and loving God’s Word today.  Knowing those promises of His love and care keep me floating.  I am not overwhelmed and submerged when I can hang on to God’s faithfulness.  His Word is not only my comfort but my survival.

Thank you Lord, that I can cling to Your Word and survive.

Scripture for Today: Psalm 119:96  “I have seen that everything has its limits and end; but Your commandment is exceedingly broad and without limits, into eternity.”

The phrase, “A diamond is forever,” is recognized by over 90% of Americans.  It was coined in 1947 by Frances Gerety as part of an advertisement.  Being that a diamond is one of the hardest substances known to man, it seemed appropriate.  The diamond is made up of carbon, one of the smallest atoms that can be bonded.  With high enough temperatures these atoms compress with some very strong bonds, making the diamond incredibly durable.  The thought is that a diamond is literally forever.  The first diamond in my wedding ring was not forever.  It somehow worked its way out of the setting and is gone forever.  My current diamond already has a longer life, coming from my Grandmother’s ring from the early 1900’s.  But I know that this diamond will not last forever.

Our verse for today teaches that everything has a limit and an end.  Our treasures on earth are vulnerable to moths and rust and thieves (Matt. 6:19).  With the advent of the new earth, everything in the old earth will pass away and be replaced by the new (Rev. 21:1).  So in fact, diamonds are not forever!  But something is!

God’s Word has no limits.  It is broad, viable for every age.  And it is without end.  It will continue into eternity.  Not one letter or stroke of the pen will disappear before heaven and earth do! (Matt. 5:18)  God’s Word is forever, unlike anything we can touch on this earth.  It only makes sense to make His Word my treasure.

Thank you Lord, that Your Truth is forever.  May I love and appreciate it just like precious treasure.