Whoever keeps the commandment keeps his life; he who despises his ways will die.1
No amount of denial will prolong our life; we all shall die a physical death one day. What does Solomon mean, therefore, by those who keep the commandment will keep his life? Was he speaking figuratively? Is there a distinct way of life for those who obey God’s commands?
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. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.2
The benefits are laid before us, if only we set time to indulge, investigate, study, learn, meditate, and apply what the Scriptures teach. Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future. Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand.3
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.4 If you receive the Word, the living word,5 you need not fear; you can trust that his word will guide you with every step you take. He illuminates your path—just enough for your every step. For it is you who light my lamp; the LORD my God lightens my darkness.6 Yes, the LORD, the King of kings and the Lord of lords,7 is a personal God, a Savior.
But as for you (distinct, separate from the crowd, a child of God by grace8), continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.9
Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”10
Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.11
Notes:
1. Proverbs 19:16
2. Psalm 19:7-11
3. Proverbs 19:20-21
4. Psalm 119:105
5. John 1:1-5, 9-14
6. Psalm 18:28
7. Revelations 19:16
8. Ephesians 2:8-10
9. 2 Timothy 3:14-15
10. John 8:12
11. Psalm 1:1-3
