Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible, consisting of 176 verses. There is a psalm written for every letter of the Hebrew alphabet, and in Hebrew, each line of each different song begins with the letter of the corresponding letter that the song represents. As you read through this Psalm over the next few days, take note that every verse, except for two, has a reference to the either the word, law, commandments, statues, precepts, or decrees of God.
I love this Psalm, partly because it is so simple and does not need lots of explaining! The beauty of this Psalm is that it divulges eternal truths that we must take to heart concerning God’s Word. Let me quickly share some thoughts about the first two songs that make up this whole Psalm.
Psalm 119:2,”Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart.” God’s blessings come not upon those who hear the Word, but those who hear AND DO THE WORD. Have you ever tried to garden? How much work does it take to care for and grow your plants? Lots! How hard do you have to try to grow the weeds? Not at all! You don’t have to find sin, it will find you! But we must be people who cultivate a life of God’s Word so we will grow what is good and right in our lives.
Psalm 119:5-6, “Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees! Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands.” Have you ever felt shame by messing up? I have….lots of times! But the Bible is clear in this verse: when we live by God’s commands, we will never be put to shame! God’s Word will keep us from sin!
Psalm 119:9, “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.” God’s Word is pure just as the Giver of the Word is pure. Our over-indulgent and hyper-sexed world are assaulting the purity of every person. It is more difficult to live as a pure person at this time and in this culture than it ever has been in human history. However, God’s Word is life, purity, and power. Staying in tune with Him and immersing ourselves in the Word will keep us from impure things.
Psalm 119:11, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” God’s Word will keep us from sin. Later in Psalm 119 we read that God’s Word is “a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.” It is God’s purpose for us to be as He is: holy and without sin. He has given His Word to teach us how to be as He is, and filled us with His Spirit to give us the power to carry it out. Be in the Word often! It will save you from much heartache and failure!
Blessings!
Pastor Kyle Bauer
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