Recently, there was a viral video showing a 1500-year-old scroll. The caption was: “The original book of Esther was recently found in Iran by a Jew who lived there. The beauty is everything written in pure gold.” There were doubts raised whether it exists or true or the writings were really that of the Book of Esther?
There are metaphors used to indicate the ‘golden period’ in history or significant events that should be written in gold. However, having a scroll or a book with just golden letters or ink mixed with dust of gold is in no way beneficial. Since gold is considered precious and very expensive, such books or scrolls will not be for common use or daily use. It could be only for cosmetic purposes or to display in a museum.
David was a powerful king who could have eaten from a golden plate, drink from golden cups, sat on a golden throne and wore a golden crown. He did not find these as great or valuable. Instead, he wrote: “More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.” (Psalms 19:10) David loved the Word of God and desired it more than gold. Generally, gold is desired for ornaments or gold biscuits are desired by super rich people. David’s desire for God’s word was more than that of women who desire golden and diamond ornaments or superrich who amass gold.
People consider that gold enhances beauty, provides prestige, and secure investment for the future. David considers the Word of God as beautiful, that could be worn like pendants or placed on the head like a crown and trust for eternal life. Knowing the Word of God helps to walk in the paths of righteousness. The Word of God gives eternal life. (John 5:39)
Gold in heaven is just road pavement, even though it is highly valuable in the world. (Revelation 21:21) Moses is an example who considered bearing reproach with Christ as better than the treasures of Egypt. (Hebrews 11:26)
Do I desire the Word of God more than worldly riches?