GLEANINGS FROM THE SCRIPTURES Turn On The Light By Keith L. Estes Since the Bible was written by holy men of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, it should also be read by holy men and women of God illumined by the Holy Spirit. The Psalmist writes, "Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law." There is a reason for Psalm 119 being the longest chapter of the Bible. There are twenty-two letters in the Hebrew alphabet and this Psalm is an acrostic. However, unlike the other acrostics, which contain only one verse for each of the twenty-two Hebrew letters, Psalm 119 includes eight verses beginning with the same Hebrew letter. In order to turn on the light of this Psalm it is necessary to study it by topics. The major topic is The Word of God which is found in all but three of the verses. Some key synonyms are used to reveal the multifaceted character of God's Word. LAW- (torah) is the most frequent of the words. It comes from a verb meaning "to teach," and thus came to be applied to a wide range of revelation, from an individual directive to the entire books of Moses. It emphasizes that God has taught us in His Word what He requires of us. TESTIMONIES- emphasize the content of the Word as that which God has testified of Himself and His will. PRECEPTS- refers to instructions from a superior regarding the duties of those under him, in this case, from God to man. STATUTES- are related to a verb meaning "to engrave" and thus imply permanent and unchangeable regulations. COMMANDMENTS- are a word assuming the authority of the commander and the inherent necessity of obeying the content of the charge. JUDGMENTS- or ordinances refer to decisions God has made as a judge in order to make earthly behavior conform to His heavenly standard. WORD- is an all embracing term for God's revelation in any form. Another variation might also be translated "promise." It comes from the verb "to say" and assumes that the content of revelation is from the mouth of God who spoke those powerful words, "Let there be light." One of the old banjo strumming, foot stomping songs that I remember brings us toward that "light." It's called Glorious Freedom and it goes like this: O come to the light, the beautiful light, Come where the dew drops of mercy are bright; I know all around me by day and by night Is Jesus, the light of the world. When that light shines on our darkened soul, then we must give ourselves to Him in the same way He gave Himself for us- totally, unconditionally, and without reservation. Then turn on that light you have received so others may see the Light of the world. Psalm 119 (KJV) The Holy Bible. Return to Home Page Return to Current Edition Contact us