to whom surrender joyfully is due

Psalm 19

It is universally observed that Psalm 19 has two distinct parts. Verses 1-6 praise God perceived in the natural world. The theme of verses 7-14 is the Law of the Lord. Together they celebrate that the God of the universe also acts in the human story.

In the first part the sun has special mention. The language is often observed as being similar to that of Babylonian or Egyptian hymns to the sun. But there is a very important difference here in that the sun is not a deity but part of the created order.

In the second part, the theme changes, and also the name used for God. We have moved from referring to God as "God" (El), a name giving emphasis to divine power; to “the Lord” (See Exodus 3 and post on the giving of The Name). The latter name is connected with the giving of the Law and the presence of the Lord in historical acts. “The Law” has a number of connotations: It is instruction for God’s people; it is testimony to God’s character and will; and, with all the things it is, it instills respect and reverence for the one who gives it.

All this praise leads the psalmist to humble self-awareness. He knows that he cannot live up to God’s standards. And yet, with God, he attains to a life of high expectations, counting on God to cover even sins he himself does not discern.

Preachers sometimes use the concluding request (verse 14) as prayer before preaching. He addresses God as his rock, acknowledging his power; and as his redeemer, the one by whom his imperfect but surrendered life can make a difference in this world.

Prayer:
Given your wonder and glory, your awesome power and your extravagant, redeeming love, what is my life to be, Lord, but a matter of complete surrender to you? I give it all up to you this day. Through Christ. Amen.