A Greater Appeal

“I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches.” Psalm 119:14

The Psalmist uses various words in Psalm 119 to describe the Word of God —“instructions, laws, commandments, regulations, and decrees,” to name a few. He resolves to “Hide God’s Word in his heart” and, here in verse 14, to rejoice in it. In fact, he declares that he rejoices in God’s Word as much as in riches. It’s one thing to love the Word of God. It’s another thing to love money.

The love of money can become a great idol that leads us astray. Its appeal lies in what it can do. Riches can open doors of possibility. They provide comfort and influence. They offer security and stability. No wonder many delight in riches.

However, the Word of God has a greater appeal if you are willing to look for it. When you think about it, the world’s wealth cannot buy so much as an ounce of lasting joy. Riches are powerless against the approach of death. If we’re not careful, wealth can lead us away from God. The Word of God, however, leads us to God Himself.

Riches can only serve us in this life. Someone once said, “You’ll never see a U-haul behind a hearse.” As crude as that statement may be, it remains true. Wealth has an expiration date; however, God transcends this life. In His presence is fullness of joy.

The wealth of this world may delight for a moment, but the wealth of the presence of God will delight for all eternity.