Psalm 119:113-120

Walking in the light of God’s word is not just a matter of knowing where to go; it requires great courage.  The “narrow path” is scary, full of intimidating enemies.  At the same time, God’s people are not only looking for protection; they are looking to advance in the face of those fearsome situations.  If you wonder about this, just read The Acts of the Apostles in the New Testament and see how the very men who ran from danger in the garden of Gethsemane later fearlessly preached the gospel in a hostile world.

Perhaps that is the kind of context this stanza has in mind.  The Psalmist fears being ashamed of the One in Whom he hopes (114-115).  He is concerned with safety (117).  He does not want the outcome of those who stray from the truth (118-119).  It is no time for the ambivalence of the double-minded (113).  He needs God to be his “hiding place” and “shield” (114).

Do we not find this to be our situation?  We desire to know God’s will for our lives and in specific situations.  Then God’s word shines it’s light on our path and feet, only to reveal that the next step is fearful.  We may hesitate; we may even take the seemingly easy way around, only to find that we have missed God’s blessing.

Our Lord, in the hour before His greatest trial, was on His knees before His Father in Gethsemane.  The disciples who ran were not, though Jesus had warned them of the need for courage in the face of the coming temptation (Mt. 26:41).

The Psalmist prays for that which he must have in the face of trial.  First, “uphold me” (116) so I have the backbone to face the onslaught of the enemy.  Then, “hold me” (117) so I can be safely protected.  God does both as our hiding place and shield.

What a blessing to know that God not only leads us but He provides for us as we follow the way He lays out for us.  Is your pathway treacherous?  Bow before the Lord and plead His mercy and grace to help that you might boldly walk the path He has laid out for you.