You are righteous, Lord, and your laws are right. The statutes you have laid down are righteous; they are fully trustworthy. My zeal wears me out, for my enemies ignore your words. Your promises have been thoroughly tested, and your servant loves them. Though I am lowly and despised, I do not forget your precepts. Your righteousness is everlasting and your law is true. Trouble and distress have come upon me, but your commands give me delight. Your statutes are always righteous; give me understanding that I may live.
—Psalms 119:137-144

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Tsadde צ: The Purity of God’s Word
By Jennifer Kane

Your word is very pure;
therefore, Your servant loves it.

Pure—tried, refined, purified,
like gold in the furnace,
free from the dross of vanity and fallibility
that taints human writings.

The more we test Your promises,
the surer we find them.
In Your word, there is no trace of error or sin—
pure in its truth,
pure in its language,
pure in its spirit,
pure in its influence,
pure to the highest degree—
very pure.

Your word is very pure;
therefore, Your servant loves it.

The Bible overflows with reasons
to love the Word of God—
and the God who gave it.

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Scripture: Psalms 119:137-144

God’s word is pure—untainted, unwavering, and full of life. In a world filled with half-truths, shifting values, and moral confusion, the Scriptures stand as an unchanging beacon of righteousness. The psalmist declares that God’s word is not only righteous but also very pure (v. 140). This purity means His word is free from error, deception, or corruption. It is holy and perfect, reflecting God’s very nature.

The psalmist finds delight in God’s commands, even when he faces trouble and distress (v. 143). This is because he understands that God’s laws are not burdensome but life-giving. When everything else fails, God’s word remains a firm foundation, bringing wisdom, peace, and assurance.

The psalmist says, “Your servant loves it” (v. 140). We, too, should cherish Scripture, allowing it to shape our hearts and minds. The world changes, but God’s word does not. In times of distress, let the Word be your delight and strength, just as the psalmist did.

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Heavenly Father, Your word is pure, true, and everlasting. Help me to love and cherish it above all else. In times of trouble, let me find delight in Your commands and trust in Your righteous ways. Give me understanding, that I may live according to Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

March 1 2025