Have you ever heard anyone say something like, “I don’t need to go to church, I can learn all need to know about God while I am fishing on the lake?” One of the songs from God’s Old Testament hymnal (Psalm 19) tells us you can learn about God from what he has created. From the works of his hands you can see that he is powerful and wise. From the conscience he created in you, you can tell he definitely does not like sin. But that is about it. Is that all you need to know about God? Of course not! If all you know about God is that he hates sin and is wise and incredibly powerful, then you would be scared silly. You are a sinner. A powerful God hates sin. That is what nature can tell you. If you honestly contemplate this as you fish, doesn’t the fishing pole start to shake a little bit?

But look at the rest of this song. The God who is our salvation reveals that salvation to us in the Bible. It opens our eyes to see that Jesus lived and died in our place. We can rejoice because God’s Word clearly proclaims we are forgiven through faith in Jesus. God’s Word is not a burden or a chore. It is a source of unending wisdom and joy! The Word is a precious treasure to be savored and studied. I guess the fish will have to wait.

Psalm 19:1,7,8,11

The heavens declare the glory of God;

  the skies proclaim the work of his hands.

The law of the LORD is perfect

  giving joy to the heart,

The commands of the LORD are radiant,

  Giving light to the eyes.

They are more precious than gold;

  they are sweeter than honey.