Psalm 19 reveals two ways through which God makes himself known.
Verses 1-6 focus on God’s self-revelation in creation. The heavens declare the glory of God, we are told, and they do so both through their wonder and scope. Day and night they continue this declaration. Even though all people do not pay attention the testimony is inescapable. The sum of their testimony is that God in his wisdom and power has made them and sustains them in their courses; we are part of that creation, made and sustained by God.
Verses 7-11 elaborate this by identifying a second place where God reveals himself: his word, the Bible. Through law, testimony, precepts, commandment, and rules the character and personal nature of God are revealed and the enlightening, refreshing and life giving character of them are extolled. The law teaches the personal nature of the God who creates and sustains. It reveals his moral character and holds we, who are created in his image, and who are called into relationship with him, to live according to that character as our standard.
Verses 12-14 show the right response to this encounter, a humble recognition of personal limitations and failings; a plea of faith for God to preserve and declare our innocence. We submit, require mercy, and the presence of the power of God to live in fellowship with him.
The new covenant reveals that the incarnation, atoning death and resurrection of The Lord Jesus Christ allow us to receive that mercy; and the power and work of the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit is the means by which new life and fellowship with God are experienced.
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