Division 13 (Mem)
The effect of the Word when loved for its own sake.
(vs. 97) The godly man expresses his affection for the Word. It is loved, not simply for the blessing that it brings, or the effects it produces, but for its own sake. That which the psalmist loves is the subject of his meditation all the day.
Further, the Word in the heart is above all teaching, however good and right in its place; therefore by the Word the godly man can acquire understanding above all his teachers. Again, the Word when loved and obeyed, will give more understanding than all the human experience of the aged.
(v. 101) Moreover love for the Word not only produces inward affects in the soul, but it has a practical effect upon the walk. It urns the feet from every evil way, so that in separation from evil he Word can be obeyed.
(v. 102) Above all, the Word held in affection brings the believer into direct contact with God, “thou hast taught me.” (cf. Luke 10:3939And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. (Luke 10:39); Tim. 2:7). This is the secret of a wisdom beyond anything that can be acquired from man, teachers, or human experience. It is a wisdom acquired in the presence of God, and held in faith with God.
(vv. 103-104) Thus loving the Word, and realizing its blessed effects, it becomes more precious to the soul than natural things however sweet. The one who knows the sweetness of the Word not only has understanding to discern between good and evil, but learns to refuse the evil, and thus say, “I hate every false way.”