My heart is overflowing with a good theme; I recite my composition concerning the King; my tongue is the pen of a ready writer. (Psalm 45:1)
According to an ancient adage, the tongue is the pen of the heart which, in my view, is another way of saying, “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45). Whatever is in our heart, good or bad, will eventually overflow and be spoken with our tongue. This psalm, according to its author, was the result of a heart filled with inspiration and good thoughts toward his King — he could not help but write these things down for posterity. Rabbinical writers say that, more than just good thoughts, the sons of Korah were inspired by the spirit of prophecy to write this composition, their hearts burning with words of adoration. In other words, the sons of Korah were more than just poets, they were psalmists.
When he sits down to write, the typical author may have a basic idea of what he wants to say but ponders how best to say it. He may pause and consider what is the best word and phrase to use in order to express himself, and sometimes, spends hours trying to compose the next sentence. Not so with the inspired psalmist; the thoughts well up inside of his heart and come forth as rapidly as a gushing fountain because his spirit is stirred by the Spirit of God. As a result, you and I are blessed to have inherited Sacred Scripture given to us by men inspired by God Himself. As Paul said, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God” (2 Timothy 3:16). Likewise, Peter said, “Prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21).
The point today is twofold: first, to appreciate the Holy Scriptures and to know that what we read in the Bible is not just a collection of stories and maxims but is an expression of God’s character and His will for mankind. Secondly, we need to realize the importance of speaking truth when inspired by the Spirit of God as opposed to speaking off the top of our head. Skilled oratory does not necessarily equate to speaking with inspiration, passion and conviction. I can always tell the difference between the person who speaks what he has rehearsed and the person who speaks confidently of what is in his heart. The former may impress his audience but the latter can inspire his audience. And so may it be that our hearts are always overflowing with good thoughts of our King and inspiration that provokes our tongue to speak words that inspire others to love and serve Him.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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