A dying martyr experiences peace, the reward of obeying the Scripture. (Psalm 19:10-11) “A quiet conscience is a little heaven. A martyr was fastened to the stake, and the sheriff who was to execute him expressed his sorrow that he should persevere in his opinions, and compel him to set fire to the pile. The martyr answered, ‘Do not trouble yourself, for I am not troubling myself. Come and lay your hand upon my heart, and see if it does not beat quietly.’ His request was complied with, and he was found to be quite calm. ‘Now,’ said he, ‘lay your hand on your own heart, and see if you are not more troubled than I am; and then go your way, and, instead of pitying me, pity yourself.’’ (Spurgeon) Not only does the Word bring reward, it is an asset and wealth like gold, and a pleasing experience like tasting the best honey.
Gold: Many people gather and store gold for a secure future and for times of emergency. King David became rich. He gave one hundred thousand talents of gold and one million talents of silver for the construction of the Temple of God in Jerusalem. (I Chronicles 22:14) Yet, David sings that the Revelation of God is more valuable and desirable than gold. Trusting in riches is futile.
Honey: The Bible is greater than the experience of the senses. Honey is sweet, but His Word is sweeter still. Natural honey is a good food that gives energy and immune capacity. Similarly, God’s Word gives enormous Spiritual strength and stamina to fight against the temptations of the flesh, the world, and Satan.
Warning: David understood that wealth and pleasures are not enough; there is a need for warning. God’s warning is needed to fight against sin. Dangers that Satan lays on our spiritual journey. A warning is needed to be careful and prepared to encounter dangers and risks. Those who heed warnings are rewarded, and those who reject warnings face danger and death.
Do I esteem God’s word as wealth, warning, and honey?