Mid-week Advent 2
December 11, 2002
Psalm 19
Glories in the Heavens
INTRODUCTION: The company of the angels who sang to the shepherds concerning the Savior's birth said: "Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace good will toward men." Our Psalm for this evening, Psalm 19 sings the same new song. As we count down the days before Christmas we consider the Lord of heaven and earth who has come to visit His people. He has made His revelation known in the heavens and in the Scriptures, which give light to the life of men. Consider the glory of God made known to men.
1. God's revelation concerning Himself in the heavens
A. An Unmistakable witness V. 1
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
B. An untiring witness V. 2
2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge.
C. An understandable witness Vv. 3-6
3 There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. 4 Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun, 5 which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion, like a champion rejoicing to run his course. 6 It rises at one end of the heavens and makes its circuit to the other; nothing is hidden from its heat.
Transition: God is made known in the world. But we know Him best through the testimony of the Scriptures.
2. God's revelation of Himself in the Scriptures
A. God's Word is precious Vv. 7-10
1. It challenges us V. 7
7 The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple.
2. It cheers us V. 8
8 The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.
3. It changes us Vv. 9-10
9 The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the Lord are sure
and altogether righteous. 10 They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb.
B. God's Word is powerful Vv. 11-14
1. It convicts us V. 11
11 By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.
2. It cleanses us V. 12
12 Who can discern his errors? Forgive my hidden faults.
3. It corrects us Vv. 13-14
a. It will keep me from folly V. 13
13 Keep your servant also from willful sins; may they not rule over me. Then will I be blameless, innocent of great transgression.
b. It will keep me in fellowship V. 14
14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Heavenly father, You have filled the world with beauty. Open our eyes to see Your gracious hand in all Your works, that rejoicing in Your whole creation, we may learn to serve You with gladness, for the sake of Him through whom all things were made, Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.
For All the Saints A Prayer book for and by the Church, Year 2: Advent - Pentecost - American Lutheran Publicity Bureau Delhi, NY © 1995
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