What does it mean to "greatly delight in His commandments"? The Verse in Focus “Blessed is the man who fears the LORD and greatly delights in His commandments.” (Psalm 112:1) Seeing “Delight” Through Biblical Eyes • Delight is an inner pleasure that overflows into action. • “Greatly” (Hebrew me’od) intensifies the joy—wholehearted, not half-hearted. • The same word appears in Deuteronomy 6:5: “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” Our delight mirrors that “all.” What Are “His Commandments”? • More than the Ten Commandments—every word God speaks (Psalm 119:160). • Moral laws that reveal His character (Leviticus 19:2). • Instructions that lead to life and blessing (Deuteronomy 30:15-20). • Fulfilled perfectly in Christ and written on believers’ hearts (Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 10:16). Why a Believer Delights • God’s commands are “perfect, reviving the soul” (Psalm 19:7). • Obedience proves love: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). • They are not burdensome: “His commandments are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3). • Meditating on them yields stability and fruitfulness (Psalm 1:2-3). Marks of One Who “Greatly Delights” • Regular, eager intake of Scripture—reading, memorizing, meditating (Psalm 119:97). • Quick obedience—responding without delay or debate (Psalm 119:60). • Joyful submission—even when commands confront personal desires (Luke 9:23). • Public identification—speaking of God’s ways openly (Psalm 119:46). • Persevering trust—clinging to His word through trials (Psalm 119:92). Blessings Promised in Psalm 112 • Strong, godly legacy: “His descendants will be mighty in the land” (v. 2). • Material and spiritual provision: “Wealth and riches are in his house” (v. 3). • Steadfast heart unshaken by bad news (vv. 6-7). • Generosity toward others (v. 9). The delight is both cause and conduit for these blessings. Cultivating Greater Delight • Ask the Spirit to illumine the Word (John 16:13). • Align daily choices with Scripture—practice breeds affection. • Fellowship with others who treasure God’s commands (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Recall specific instances where obedience brought peace and joy (Psalm 103:2). • Sing and pray Scripture—turn commands into worship (Colossians 3:16). Living It Out Today To “greatly delight in His commandments” is to treasure God’s Word as the most trustworthy guide, the sweetest pleasure, and the clearest evidence of genuine faith. A life saturated with that delight shines, gives, perseveres, and leaves a godly imprint that endures. |