Psalm 119:162

Psalm 119:162 “I rejoice in Your promise like one who finds great spoil.”
 

David was both a ruler and a warrior. He knew the thrill of collecting the spoil after the battle. Few things could compare to walking through the camp of the defeated to gather up for themselves anything they wanted. However, David knew then true treasures of life were not in the spoil of the enemy but in the promises of God.
 

Often, we are so earthly-minded that we are no heavenly good. I once had the opportunity to be in the same town that was hosting an international triathlon event. The contestants swam for 2 ½ miles, then they bicycled for 110 miles, and finally they ran for 26 miles. They do all that in one day. I learned how one contestant has a regular routine of exercising eight hours every day for this. It is possible in these situations for their body to become their god. 

In 1 Timothy 4:8 we read, “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” There is absolutely nothing wrong with physical fitness. However, it only benefits this life. Godliness on the other hand, benefits not only this life but also eternity. Physical fitness allows us to gain some of the treasures of this life, but that is all.
 

The promises of God affect eternity, while the spoils from battle affect only this life. The only time eternal truths truly cause us to rejoice is when we see more than just this life. “Since then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God” Colossians 3:1. What kind of relationship with God would we need to be able to say that God’s promises mean as much to us as attaining those things that benefit this life only? We would need a relationship like David’s.
 

I encourage you to take some time to meditate on this verse, as you do; consider what your affections are really set upon.   Continued