Melvin Worthington preached an entire sermon on Psalm 119, verse 11. It says, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Let me summarize what he says.
There are two quick principles that he begins with. (1) Christians whose lives are characterized by dedication, discipline and dependability have the Word of God hidden in their hearts. (2) Christians who are hounded by doubts, dissatisfaction, disobedience and disbelief have neglected to hide the Word of God in their hearts. Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible. It deals almost exclusively with the Word of God and its place in the believer’s life.
His sermon is broken down into four parts. The first is based on the “Your Word…” phrase. To him that represents the Precepts. Its in God’ word we find direction, meaning and purpose in life. God reveals truth to us as the Psalmist claims and the truth, as Jesus Claims, sets us free to be all that God created us to be. The “I have hidden…” phrase represents the Process. We must know and understand God’s Word to truly live it. We need to wrestle with its precepts in ways that satisfy our questions and ministers to our souls. The phrase “…in my heart…” represents the Place. It’s not on an external tablet or list of do’s and don’ts. It’s something we delight in and enjoy and relish. Worthington goes on to suggest that the final phrase, “…that I might not sin against you” is a reference to the Purpose. But I see it more as a Result phrase. The Hebrew language actually accommodates such a translation. If I have God’s word hidden in my heart it will result in a right kind of life.
But I do agree with his conclusion. He argues, “We must not treat the Word as a protective charm to be worn, but hide it in our hearts as a rule of life. Time spent thoughtfully treasuring up the Word of God is as essential to the Christian as is refueling in mid-flight to the nation’s long-range bomber strike force.”
Chuck
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. (Psalm 119:11)