Recently someone loaned us their car.  They hid the key, on the car, so that we would use it.  It wasn’t a difficult hiding spot – it was simply sitting on one of the rear tires. I remember that moment of circling the car looking for that hidden key hoping it truly was there. And then, just like that we were on our way.  The key was successfully hidden, easily accessed, and then used.

A key to our house has often been hidden in and around our house.  We don’t need to do that now because easy access is through a keypad – no key required!  We have hidden a key in years past because, with so many coming and going, at some point, someone was sure to be locked out. The hidden key gave access to home.  No need to hope a window was possibly left open to climb through.  No need to wait on the front step for someone to arrive to let you in.

The idea, ‘ease of the access’ is what strikes me today, because over the past few months there have been signs posted, and words spoken, that remind us we are not allowed to access certain buildings or facilities.  Access, even to visit family members or friends, has been denied or limited. In a sense we have been left without the key, waiting on the front porch for someone to let us in. 

In the Bible David came to value that which was accessed with ease from its hiding place.  It is a powerful image when he says, “I have hidden your word in my heart” (Psalm 119:11).  Psalm 119 is worth reading – even if it has 176 verses!  It speaks over and over of the Word of God which, David knew, must be hidden in his heart so that in any situation, on any given day, he might have easy access to it.  David acknowledges that nowhere else can he find what is essential for living the life that God had designed for those he has created, loves, and knows by name.  It was the Word that was his counsellor (v. 24), strength (v. 28), delight (35), freedom (v. 45), comfort (52), hope (81), insight (91), direction (v. 105), joy (v. 111).  So valuable is the hidden word that David says, “If your law (words) had not been my delight I would have perished in my affliction” (v. 92). 

When the key is not properly hidden it is of no use – no access. David confesses that there was a time he thought he would be fine without the Word hidden in his heart, directing his steps. In verse 67, David says, “Before I learned to answer you, I wandered all over the place, but now I’m in step with your Word.  You are good and the source of good; train me in your goodness.” Through the difficulties of life David learned that which was most valuable not only for him but for the people he led.  He says, “streams of tears flow from my eyes for your word is not obeyed” (v. 136).  

We have been given a treasure easily hidden and easily accessed – the Word of God!  Ease of access to this treasure in all its profound wisdom and truth is ours daily because of the work of Jesus Christ. Colossians 2:3 says, “In Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Jesus breaths life, by his Spirit, through the Word.

This following song, for me, is one of great comfort and truth.  It combines the beauty of the Word with the wonder of our Saviour Jesus.  It begins with verse Psalm 119:105. Enjoy the truth contained in these simple but beautiful words.  Today, hide verse 105 in your heart and access it with ease as required..

Thy Word (Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith)

Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path

When I feel afraid
Think I've lost my way
Still you're there right beside me
And nothing will I fear
As long as you are near
Please be near me to the end

Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path

I will not forget
Your love for me and yet
My heart forever is wandering
Jesus be my guide
And hold me to your side
I will love you to the end

Nothing will I fear as long as you are near
Please be near me to the end

Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path
And a light unto my path
You're the light unto my path

Almighty God,
My lips will pour forth praise,
    for you teach me your statutes.
My tongue will sing of your word,
    for all your commandments are right.
Let your hand be ready to help me,
    for I have chosen your precepts.
 I long for your salvation, O Lord,
    and your law is my delight.
Let my soul live and praise you,
    and let your rules help me.
I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek your servant,
    for I do not forget your commandments.  AMEN        (Psalm 119:171-176).

With care and in prayer,