Psalm 119:130 – The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple. (NIV)

I have several beautiful cutwork tablecloths — a fabric design that incorporates embroidery or lace with parts of the fabric cut out to accent shapes. When they are folded up in the drawer, they don't look much different than any of the other cloths. 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 cloth from something not worth taking a second look at, to a marvellous work of skill and art.

Likewise, the psalmist tells us today that the unfolding of God's words gives light.

When I read an appointed verse or passage of Scripture each day, at first glance, it often seems quite ordinary, not very different from other verses that 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 particular 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 to 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 speak only what he hears, and 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, instead of walking away wondering, What does this passage have to do with me? let us make a point of asking the Holy Spirit to guide us into deeper truths by unfolding God's Word. We do this so that we might discover the kind of light which gives understanding to the simple.

Prayer: Thank You, Lord Jesus, for the gift of Your Holy Spirit, Who is able to guide us into all truth, 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 Your name, we ask. Amen.

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About the author:

Lynne Phipps <lynnephippsatlin@gmail.com>
Tawatinaw, Alberta, Canada
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