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 13-17. We will discover practical benefits of God’s word.
The goal is for each of us to have a greater appreciation for the word of God.
15) I hate vain thoughts (113-120)
113 I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love.114 Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.115 Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.116 Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.117 Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually.118 Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit is falsehood.119 Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth like dross: therefore I love thy testimonies.120 My flesh trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.
The psalmist hates vain things. As we think about our lives, can we make that statement? This world has an allure for each of us that distracts us from God and His word.
Then the psalmist says he loves the word of God. When we do, we will find the benefits the psalmist found.
God becomes our hiding place and shield, He upholds us, gives us life, hope, safety, and protection.
The psalmist concludes with a reverent fear of God.
In this section we see an all knowing, ever present, and all powerful God. He becomes our hiding place. He is able to take care of all our persecutions, afflictions, wickedness, and problems. Our response is to love God and His Word.
16) I am thy servant (121-128)
121 I have done judgment and justice: leave me not to mine oppressors. ***122 Be surety for thy servant for good: let not the proud oppress me.*** 123 Mine eyes fail for thy salvation, and for the word of thy righteousness. 124 Deal with thy servant according unto thy mercy, and teach me thy statutes.125 I am thy servant; give me understanding, that I may know thy testimonies.126 It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law.127 Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.128 Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.
The psalmist states, I am thy servant. Then he requests that God would give him understanding, that he may know God’s testimonies.
The benefits of a close walk with God are protection from oppressors, surety of thy servant for good, a desire for God’s word, mercy, being taught the word of God, understanding, love for God’s word, and wisdom to discern right and wrong.
Verse 122 is one of the verses that does not refer to God’s word.
Do we desire to be servants of God? Being a servant of God is more than just knowing about God and His word. It is action. When God gives us something to do, will we be willing to do it? Are we listening to that still small voice urging us to act?
The psalmist said, I am thy servant, are we?
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com
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