How does Deuteronomy 6:6 connect with Psalm 119:11 about hiding God's word? Opening the Texts Together • Deuteronomy 6:6: “These words I am commanding you today are to be upon your hearts.” • Psalm 119:11: “I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” The Heart as God’s Chosen Storage Place • Both verses spotlight the heart as the seat of spiritual life, not merely the mind. • Deuteronomy speaks of God’s commands “upon” the heart—anchored, visible, always present. • Psalm 119 describes the word “hidden” in the heart—secured, protected, treasured. • Together they show one continuous principle: God’s word should move from external hearing to internal treasuring. From Divine Command to Personal Commitment • Deuteronomy 6:6 issues a covenant command to all Israel—“place My words on your heart.” • Psalm 119:11 shows an individual’s response—“I have hidden Your word in my heart.” • The Psalmist’s practice fulfills the earlier command, illustrating how each believer appropriates the law personally. Guarding Against Sin • Psalm 119 links hiding the word with victory over sin: “that I might not sin against You.” • Deuteronomy 6, in the immediate context (vv. 10-15), warns Israel against forgetting the LORD amid prosperity. Keeping the words on the heart is the safeguard. • Other confirming passages: – Joshua 1:8—meditate “day and night… then you will prosper.” – Proverbs 3:1-3—“keep my commands in your heart… they will add to you.” – James 1:21-22—receive the implanted word and become doers. • The consistent thread: Scripture stored within functions as moral and spiritual protection. Practical Ways to Hide the Word Today • Read aloud and repeat—Deuteronomy 6:7 encourages conversation in the home. • Memorize strategic passages—Psalm 119 models extensive memorization. • Meditate—turn verses over in the mind (Psalm 1:2). • Sing Scripture—Colossians 3:16 speaks of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. • Write and display—Deuteronomy 6:9 refers to symbols on doorposts and gates; journaling serves a similar purpose now. The Bigger Story: Heart-Written Law • Jeremiah 31:33 and Hebrews 8:10 promise a new covenant where God writes His law on hearts, echoing Deuteronomy 6:6. • When the Psalmist treasures the word, he lives out a preview of that promised reality. Living the Connection • Deuteronomy 6:6 gives the directive. • Psalm 119:11 shows the disciple doing it. • The result is a life guarded from sin and steeped in fellowship with God (John 14:23). |
    |