“The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” (Psalm 119:130 NIV)
I have several beautiful cutwork tablecloths. When they are folded up in the drawer, they don’t look much different than any of the other clothes. The edges have some scalloping on them, but other than that they appear quite ordinary. But as one unfolds them, the intricate beauty of the cutwork and colours becomes more and more apparent, transforming the clothe from something not worth taking a second look at, to a marvelous work of skill and art.
Likewise, the Psalmist tells us today: The unfolding of your words gives light.
I know, for myself, as I read an appointed passage or verse of Scripture each day, at first glance it often seems quite ordinary, not very different from other verses I have read. And yet, when I make myself take the time to prayerfully consider what I have just read, asking the Holy Spirit, questions such as: what does this verse have to do with me and my life, I often end up quite amazed at the intricacies of a particle verse or reading. When I allow the Spirit to unfold the meaning of the Word, suddenly it is very applicable to my life and or our world situation.
Through the guiding of the Spirit, into the truth of Scripture, I discover a deeper understanding of simple words, because I am seeing them not only through my own eyes and understanding, but through the eyes of the One of whom Jesus said: But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will tell you what is yet to come. He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you. John 16:13-14 NIV
So, today, as we make and take some time to read the Scriptures, may we also make a point of asking the Holy Spirit, to guide us into deeper truths by unfolding God’s word. That we might have the kind of light which gives understanding to the simple….us, who might otherwise walk away simply wondering: what does this passage have to do with me?
Prayer: Thank You Lord, for the gift of Your Holy Spirit who is able to guide us into all truth by bringing You glory by taking what is Yours and making it known to us. May we grow in wisdom and truth daily, as we ask for His guidance in helping us to unfold the deeper meanings of Scripture. In Christ’s name we ask. Amen.
Lynne Phipps
Atlin, BC, Canada
