Obeying God's Word-A Call to Reverent Submission

Text: Psalm 119:129–136

"Your statutes are wonderful; therefore I obey them." – Psalm 119:129 (NIV)

The Word of God is not merely a text to admire; it is a voice that God wants us to obey. In a world flooded with opinions, trends, and shifting truths, Scripture stands as the unchanging revelation of God's will. Psalm 119:129–136 invites us to rediscover what it means to submit to God's Word, not out of fear or duty, but from a heart of reverent joy.

God has designed His Word for obedience. It enlightens, commands, guides, and teaches. And even when the world rejects it, the Word remains holy, powerful, and life-changing. Let's walk through these verses to understand why obedience to God's Word is not optional, but essential for every believer.

1. It's a Light-Giving Word (v. 130)

"The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.”

God's Word is not obscure or hidden; it illuminates. Like the sunrise piercing through a night, Scripture reveals truth, exposes error, and clarifies the path ahead.

Even the "simple," those without degrees or theological training, can grasp divine wisdom through the opened Word. God's truth is accessible to the humble heart.

Illustration: Imagine exploring a deep cave without a torch. Every step feels uncertain until you switch on the light. Suddenly, danger is exposed, and the way forward becomes clear. That’s what Scripture does; it gives light to our minds and direction to our souls.

2. It's a Commanding Word (v. 131)

"I open my mouth and pant, longing for your commands."

The psalmist doesn't just accept God's commands; he longs for them. David fuelled his obedience by desire, not duty.

True discipleship hungers for divine instruction. We don't obey begrudgingly; we obey because God's commands bring life, order, and purpose.

Illustration: Like a deer panting for streams of water, our souls crave the clarity and authority of God's voice. When we delight in His commands, obedience becomes worship.

3. It's a Guiding Word (v. 133)

"Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.”

God's Word is not a suggestion; it's a compass. It directs our steps and protects us from the domination of sin.

Obedience is not passive; it's a daily journey. Scripture should guide every decision, relationship, and reaction.

Illustration: A GPS recalculates when we miss a turn. In the same way, God's Word graciously redirects us when we stray, always leading us back to righteousness.

4. It's a Word to Learn From (v. 135)

"Make your face shine on your servant, and teach me your decrees."

Learning God's Word is deeply relational. The psalmist seeks not just information, but intimacy, the shining face of God Himself.

We are students in the school of the Spirit. Every command is a lesson, every decree a divine curriculum for holiness.

Illustration: Like a child learning from a loving parent, we grow through God's gentle correction and joyful instruction. The more we learn, the closer we draw to the Teacher.

5. It's a Rejected Word (v. 136)

"Streams of tears flow from my eyes, for your law is not obeyed."

Disobedience breaks the heart of the godly. The psalmist weeps, not for personal loss, but for the dishonour shown to God's Word.

Faithful obedience includes compassion and intercession. When others reject God's truth, our response should not be pride, but grief.

Illustration: Like Nehemiah weeping over Jerusalem's ruins, we lament the spiritual decay caused by disobedience. Our tears become prayers for revival.

A Final Challenge: Living as Obedient Hearers

The Word of God is not an accessory to our faith; it is the foundation of it. To merely hear it is not enough; we must do what it says (James 1:22).

Let us not be casual listeners, but committed doers (James 1:22-23). God's Word lights our path, commands our hearts, guides our steps, teaches our souls, and breaks our hearts for a world that resists its truth.

When we obey, we honour the Author.

 When we submit, we shine His light.

 And when we live the Word, the world sees Christ in us.

"Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." – Psalm 119:105