In the last several articles, we have emphasized the importance of spiritual maturity as it relates to decision-making. We have offered several examples of those who suffered because they could not look beyond temporary pleasure to long-term good. God’s word provides direction to the wayward and light to those sitting in darkness. It is, however, a tragic blunder to live as though Christians have grown beyond the need for daily sustenance from God’s word. James was talking to Christians when we said, “receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls” (Jas. 1:21, ESV). Discovering Jesus is a life-long pursuit. Obeying the gospel doesn’t end when we come up out of the waters of baptism. Surely, we would never argue for the doctrine of “once saved always saved!” But, from a practical point of view, this is exactly what happens when Christians rejoice in their salvation but are no longer earnestly pursuing God’s truth. Spiritual life cannot continue without the humble reception and application of God’s word.
Jesus said, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but one every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God” (Mt. 4:4). “Every word”, not just those that fit into the framework of our own opinions and desires, is the truth (Jn. 17:17; Ps. 119:160). Only the truth can provide true freedom from our sins (Jn. 8:32). Genuine love for the truth welcomes both the good and the tasty.David is described in Scripture as a man after God’s own heart (1 Sam. 13:14; Acts 13:22). Though far from perfect, David loved God’s word (Ps. 119:97, 127). Psalm 119 is dedicated entirely to the praise of God’s word. David speaks of God’s word as his cherished treasure (vs. 11); his constant object of meditation (vs. 97); and his source of light and understanding (vss. 34, 130). We would do well to carefully read this chapter, taking note of all the subtle details pertaining to God’s word. David believed in the value of “every word” of God’s truth – the good and the tasty. That he accepted correction as well as encouragement from God’s word is evident in the divine record (1 Sam. 6:3-8 cf. 1 Chr. 15:2, 13, 15; 2 Sam. 12; 24:10-14). This attitude toward God’s word is not produced by focusing only on the tasty portions of Scripture. Paul told Timothy to “preach the word…reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction” (2 Tim. 4:2). A proper spiritual diet includes both correction and encouragement – both the good and the tasty. Standing before the mirror of God’s word, we are blessed only as we make the necessary changes that bring us more into harmony with the will of God.
— Glen Elliott —