The Simple Become Wise

 By: Joanne Viola 

 

“The unfolding of Your words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple.” (Psalm 119:130, NASB)

The verse was on my calendar recently and the words stuck like glue to my soul. We love the assurance that Scripture brings light to our lives. God’s Word helps us to see His goodness, faithfulness, and activity in the midst of the darkness in the world.

But it was the second half which has had my full attention and I have been unable to even flip the page as the days passed.

God’s Word gives understanding to the simple.

I like “simple” as it conjures up the image of “easy” and who doesn’t like easy? Seriously, easy means no struggle, no pain, no discomfort, and no confusion. Easy means the mission can be accomplished, and hopefully, in one swell swoop.

But it is not used as an adjective here but a noun.

When used as a noun, “simple” has taken on a not so complimentary definition. We tend to think of it in terms of a person who is ignorant, easily fooled, gullible, or even foolish. But I don’t think this is how Scripture is looking at the simple. Eugene Peterson captured it well:

“Every word you give me is a miracle word – how could I help but obey? Break open your words, let the light shine out, let ordinary people see the meaning.” (The MSG)

The simple – the ordinary people – or better yet, every day people like you and me.

God’s Word brings understanding to us ordinary people. Ordinary people –

• those needing clarity,
• those needing hope,
• those needing guidance,
• those needing wisdom,
• those needing help navigating the next step.

Even when we find ourselves in uncharted waters, God’s Word will unfold before us, bringing illumination and understanding when we thought we had none. God’s Word provides direction for our lives when we are unsure of the path ahead.

“The Bible is a rock of diamonds, a chain of pearls, the sword of the Spirit; a chart by which the Christian sails to eternity; the map by which he daily walks; the sundial by which he sets his life; the balance in which he weighs his actions.”

(Thomas Watson, as quoted in the Holman Old Testament Commentary, Vol. 12, page 256)

In these rapidly changing days in which we find ourselves living,
may we rely on the unchanging truth found in God’s Word –
for it is the simple who become wise.

 

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash