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Psalm 119:11-16
I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Praise be to you, LORD; teach me your decrees. With my lips I recount all the laws that come from your mouth. I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word.

A man once came up to me in our church lobby and asked, “Do you know what the word “Bible” means?” My mind went to the Greek and the meaning of “biblios.” I was getting ready to impress him with the original language when he said, “B-I-B-L-E. Basic Instruction Before Leaving Earth.”

The Bible, God’s love letter to us, gives us the basic instructions for life and living. That’s why the psalmist delighted in it and hid it in his heart. He memorized God’s Word in order to guard against temptation and sin. He likened the privilege of knowing and following God’s instruction to having great riches.

The world presents many attractive options. Temptation lures our hearts to pursue personal happiness. But following temptation will always lead to places of destructive decisions, actions, and habits. God’s Word keeps us on His path. It provides us with basic instruction until we meet our Savior face to face.

Father, keep me in Your Word. Keep my heart delighted to read, study, and apply Your love letter to me. Help me memorize key verses. Help me to not neglect regular interaction with You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.