The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether. (Psalm 19:7-9, ESV)
Rory Mcllroy “took a line you’re not supposed to take on Sunday at the par-5 14th tee at Pebble Beach Golf Links, an aim that requires accuracy and power and above all else conviction,” writes Joel Beall in a recent Golf Digest article.
After hitting a seven iron into the green, Rory made a twenty-seven-foot eagle to increase his lead by three. Rory was aggressive on that one hole, but it was his strategic wisdom over all four rounds that enabled him to conquer the elements, overcome the elite signature field, and calm the chaos within. Might this be the start of something special in 2025 for Rory?
Psalm 19, To the choirmaster, A Psalm of David, is a poetic reflection the LORD’s created order and his strategic and divine law.
Divided into two sections: the first six verses of Psalm 19 testify to God’s glory displayed through his creation. The heavens, the sky, the day, and the night all bring forth imagery that highlights God’s order and beauty. The sun is described as a bridegroom emerging from his chamber and as a strong man running a race. Like the sun, God’s power and greatness is consistent.
The Psalmist shifts the focus in the next three verses to God’s law (Torah – instruction, direction, teaching) as being perfect, trustworthy, right, a joy, pure, and enlightening. These characteristics revive the soul, impart wisdom, bring joy to the heart, are pure, and they open our eyes to see that God’s commands are for our good.
Like fine gold and sweet honey, pursuing God’s instructions brings incomparable value to our lives and experiences of pleasure beyond our comprehension.
I love being out in nature. But too often, like David, I fall short of honoring God’s power and beauty. I get hijacked by fear and turn away from God’s teachings, leading me to hurt myself and others.
As the Psalm ends, I am reminded to pray, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.”
While the emotional high that Rory experienced after winning fades away, our spiritual conviction for awe of God’s beauty, living according to his Word, and gratitude for his grace should always be growing and getting stronger.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for revealing yourself through creation and through your Word. Open the eyes of my heart and mind to praise you and follow you.