The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Psalm 112:1-4, Praise the LORD! How blessed is the man who fears the LORD, Who greatly delights in His
commandments.
2 His descendants will be mighty on earth; The generation of the upright will be blessed.
3 Wealth and riches are in his house, And his righteousness endures forever.
4 Light arises in the darkness for the upright; He is gracious and compassionate and righteous.”

In a previous Letter, we discussed how many variations there are for the meaning of the English word “fall.” Did you check me on that? I ask because the same applies to the word “fear.” What does it mean to “fear the LORD”? Moreover, how could one who fears the LORD “greatly delight in His commandments”? The meaning of that first verse turns on the meaning of the Hebrew word ) ?????yare(. Sometimes the word means “terror”; at other times, it means “reverence.” The context determines the actual meaning.

In this Psalm, the meaning is “reverence.” “How blessed is the man who reverences the LORD…” When he does, he also “delights in His commandments.” That delight lies in the knowledge that the man’s “descendants will be mighty on Earth.” Furthermore, the generation that delights in the LORD and follows His instruction, will be blessed with wealth and great riches. What’s even more important is that the man’s righteousness will endure forever.

Light and darkness here are euphemisms for “good times and bad times.” There may be times when darkness hovers over the lives of those who reverence the LORD. Yet, that darkness will be dispelled by the righteous Light of the LORD. We are, therefore, greatly encouraged to “praise the LORD” always. He promises to be gracious and compassionate toward us if we live righteously. Don’t ever become despondent! The LORD is always in control. Study His Word and trust Him. God will bless you abundantly!

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

P. S. I greatly appreciate the kind and thoughtful responses related to my recent fall. I am now doing well.

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.
Springdale, Arkansas 72764
United States of America

“We never know that Christ is all we need until He becomes all that we have.” – Corrie ten Boom