HIGHWAYS IN THE HEART

This psalm expresses the longing for the enjoyment of the place where the Lord dwells. We can outline it thus: desire, vv. 1-4; direction, vv. 5-8; destiny, vv. 9-12. It is one of those gems of the Psalter which has been called the pearl of psalms. It vividly describes the attraction of the presence of God for the one who feels at a distance. Note the intensity of verse 2 and the pathos of verse 3. Can we identify ourselves with the psalmist in his deep affection for the place where God is found?; cf. Psa. 42.

We centre our thoughts today on verses 5-8. These are words of pilgrimage. They describe the pathway of those who are on the way to the house of God. We can pick up some helpful thoughts as we look more closely on the passage.

The happiness of the pilgrim lies in the strength desired from the God who is sought. Here is enablement in anticipation of the fulfiment of desire. Surely the way is shortened with such enjoyment, and weary feet are encouraged.

The heart of the pilgrim has within it the very highways of Zion. This is a beautiful touch. The feet move in the right direction because the ways of the journey are in the heart. Is it not true that the intrepid climber, who would conquer the heights, must surely have the rugged way deeply set in his heart and mind as he climbs. When difficulties arise, this will nerve him to pursue the summit. So with the pilgrim on the road to the divine dwellings. The tipward way is set in his heart, and thus inspiration is achieved; cf. Heb. 11. 9-10, 14-16.

Verses 6-7 describe the health of the pilgrim as he journeys. The vale of tears, the place of depression, is turned into a well of refreshment. And those who dwell in Zion shall go from strength to strength. The aspiration is fulfilled as they appear before God.

Let us learn today that no sincere longing for God’s presence will ever go unanswered. The home of man’s soul is in God Himself. The believer today has the privilege of closer and more continued fellowship with the Lord than the psalmists knew. Let us carry the sanctuary in our hearts, “Christ in you, the hope of glory”, Col. 1. 27; Eph. 3. 14-19.

As one has said, “Heaven in the heart—the heart in heaven”.