“I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches. I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.” Psalm 119:14-16

All throughout life, there are people, places, and possessions that bring us joy and captivate our thoughts, yet so often we find ourselves empty and disappointed by those very things. Though the world’s offerings will ultimately disappoint us, God’s Word leads us to satisfaction in Him, and Psalm 119:14-16 challenges us to rejoice, meditate and delight in God’s law. Psalm 119:14 says “I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches” To rejoice in the way of God’s testimonies is to find joy in what God has declared in His word. His way, His law, His commandments and even His boundaries are all for our good. In a world of danger, confusion, and chaos, God’s word provides safety, direction, and peace. The psalmist recognized that the value of scripture in his life was far superior to any wealth or earthly possessions. Psalm 119:72 says “The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver.” Money can be spent, possessions might break, and circumstances will change, but we can rejoice in the promise that God’s Word remains the same!

Not only are we challenged to rejoice in God’s law, but we are also called to meditate on His precepts. Psalm 119:15 says “I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways.” We don’t often dwell on laws. I can’t say I’ve ever pondered over the speed limit, trespassing laws, or why it's illegal to drive blindfolded in Alabama, but Psalm 119:15 calls us to meditate on God’s laws. The word precepts in verse 15 refers to divine principles and commands given by God for us to follow. Though we can laugh at some silly state laws, God’s laws are intentional and essential for us to live holy lives. Joshua 1:8 says it perfectly… "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success." God’s word prepares us to react to that situation, respond to that person, and handle that situation in a way that honors Him and brings success. Pondering on God’s precepts provides preparation and prosperity.

Finally, this passage encourages us to delight in God’s law. “I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.” Psalm 119:16. The Merriam Webster Dictionary’s definition of delight is “to take great pleasure”[1]. We take pleasure in listening to good music, eating our favorite food, and spending time with our best friends, but we don’t often think of taking pleasure in God’s law, yet, we are called to delight in it. This verse gives us the picture of willingly and joyfully obeying God’s law. A sweet lady at the church I grew up in always told her children to obey right away, all the way, and happily, and God is asking us to do the same. He never intended us to obey His commands begrudgingly, but He desires for us to take joy in them because they are for our good! John 14:15 says “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” When we delight in God’s Word, obedience becomes more than a duty, but a response of love. May we not only obey Him, but delight in following His law.

Maybe you don't feel particularly excited to read your Bible in this season of life. Maybe it has become just another thing to check off your to-do list, or maybe you aren’t studying the scriptures at all. Wherever you are, God is calling you into a personal relationship with Him and desires for you to love Him and His Word.

As you go about your week, ask God to give you a fresh hunger for His Word and help you to rejoice in following His commands, meditate in His precepts, and find genuine delight in His statutes.

[1]“Delight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/delight. Accessed 1 Sept. 2026.