Translations
Psalm 119:14 (ESV) – In the way of your testimonies I delight as much as in all riches.
Psalm 119:14 LXX
εν τη οδώ των μαρτυρίων σου ετέρφθην ως επί παντί πλούτω
[In the way of your testimonies. I delighted]. as above all riches.
Psalm 119:14 Interlinear from the Hebrew – In the way of Your testimonies I have rejoiced in (as much) as all riches.
Connections
Psalm 119:111 [ESV] Your testimonies are my heritage forever, for they are the joy of my heart.
Psalm 119:162 {ESV] I rejoice at your word like one who finds great spoil.
Prov 3:13 [ESV] Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding.
Prov 8:10-11 [ESV] Take my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold. For wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare to her.
Prov 8:18-19 [ESV] Riches and honour are with me, enduring wealth and righteousness. My fruit is better than gold, even fine gold and my yield than choice silver.
ετέρφθην – I delighted
The derivative we have in the New Testament is τέρας (teras) which appears sixteen times and is translated as “wonders” A good example is in math 24:24 [ESV] For false. christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders (τέρατα0, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.
There is so much here that helps us understand the hollowness of earthly riches compared to receiving wisdom from God through the Holy Spirit and Jesus. There is nothing wrong with having earthly riches unless they have us. One word from heaven, one day in His presence, one glimpse of his face, and nothing else satisfies.
Reflections
I remember driving home one night along the side of Loch Lochy near Kinlochleven in Scotland. It was just getting a little dark, a time of day we call “the gloaming,” when I felt impressed enough to pull over my car, get out, and just look at the view. As I stood there waiting, quiet, no other person or car. for miles around, an indescribable joy flooded my soul, the only thought I had was that I was experiencing what heaven must feel like. A few minutes went by, and the presence faded.
Strength coaches comment – The talent of Empathy allows us to experience what others are experiencing – so it’s no longer just words. They know that I know.
Blessings
Allan