Good morning,
Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible. Every verse, except three, refer to the word of God. It is divided into 22 sections. Each section contains eight verses. Each section corresponds to one of the twenty-two letters in the Hebrew alphabet. There are many references to the word of God in this chapter. As we study this chapter, write down or highlight each reference.
We will be studying Psalm 119 for the month of January.
This week we will examine sections 7-12.
The goal is for each of us to have a greater appreciation for the word of God.
11) All thy commandments are faithful (81-88)
81 My soul fainteth for thy salvation: but I hope in thy word.82 Mine eyes fail for thy word, saying, When wilt thou comfort me? 83 For I am become like a bottle in the smoke; yet do I not forget thy statutes.84 How many are the days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me? 85 The proud have digged pits for me, which are not after thy law.86 All thy commandments are faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; help thou me.87They had almost consumed me upon earth; but I forsook not thy precepts.88 Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth.
The psalmist is seeking comfort from the Lord. He finds comfort in the word of God.
Then the psalmist is persecuted wrongfully. He asks when judgment will come on those who persecute him. He continues to follow and keep the precepts of God’s word.
Each of us have been persecuted wrongfully. Rehearse in your mind your response. Does the psalmist give us other choices? Do the Scriptures help us to respond in a way that would honor and glorify God? Consider some of those ways.
12) Thy faithfulness is unto all generations (89-96)
89 For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.90 Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.91 They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants. 92 Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction.93 I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me.94 I am thine, save me: for I have sought thy precepts.95 The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies.96 I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad.
The psalmist understood that the word of God never changes. It is forever. That is why we can place our confidence in it. God’s word explains everything we need to know. From cradle to grave and all points in between.
The psalmist realized that had the law not been his delight, he would have perished. This is true about us. Without the word of God to guide us, we too would perish. It tells us how to live life. If we need answers to questions, God’s word has the answers.
The only problem is we have to open the book and diligently read and study what it says. Then we must obey God’s commandments.
Is that our desire?
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com
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