Class participation

The entrance of Your words gives light. — Psalm 119:130

As a high school teacher and college professor, I have observed that learning is a cooperative effort between the student and the instructor. That’s why educators try to get the student involved in class participation. The teacher does some work; the student does some work. Together progress is made. Education happens.

In Psalm 119, the writer suggests a similar pattern in verses 129-136. God is the teacher; we are the students.

Let’s look at God’s role in our education. He shows us mercy (v. 132). He guides our steps (v. 133). And He redeems us from outside trouble (v. 134).

But first we must be eager students, ready to accept God’s teaching, guidance, and help. We should enter His classroom with anticipation: “The entrance of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple . . . I longed for Your commandments” (vv. 130-131). In our role as students of God’s Word, we should fulfill three requirements: (1) examine God’s words for what they are teaching, (2) gain understanding from those words, and (3) obey His statutes.

It’s time to enter God’s classroom and listen and learn from Him. When we do, we’ll look at God with renewed love and at the world with renewed concern (v. 136). — Dave Branon

Thy Word is like a deep, deep mine,

And jewels rich and rare

Are hidden in its mighty depths

For every searcher there. — Hodder

READ: Psalm 119:129-136

Careful meditation on the Scriptures makes for a closer walk with the Savior.

The Bible in one year:

• Psalms 125-127