Psalm 119 is an acrostic
poem. Each stanza contains 8 lines under
the heading of one of the letters in the Hebrew alphabet, in consecutive order
from first to last. Each verse or line
within the stanza begins with the letter for that stanza.
Psalm 119 is the longest chapter
in the Bible, with nearly all of the 176 verses containing a reference to
Scripture. It bears testimony to the
unknown writer, that he has a deep connection to Scripture. God’s word is his mindset at all times of the
day, and particularly in the unspecified, severe trial in which he finds
himself.
This opening stanza pronounces a blessing. A key term in the stanza is way or ways. It seems that the Holy
Spirit, before exalting the word of God, wants us to remember that it is not
simply having and knowing Scripture that brings blessing. It is obedience to the Word. The blessing is on those who are undefiled in the way (v1), who do no iniquity as they walk in God’s
ways (v3).
Notice both the singular term (way, v1) and the plural (ways, v3). As Jesus said, there is one way, the difficult way (Matt. 7:13-14).
God’s people must be on that way, having entered at the narrow gate by
faith in the crucified and risen Lord Jesus Christ. Then the believer must remember that every
day is filled with choices concerning his ways
while on the difficult way.
God’s word gives us direction for those ways. Thus the Psalmist prays that his ways might be so directed that he is
keeping God’s word (v5). The result of
this would be that he would be …
·
Free of shame when he comes to the Word (v6). When we read the Bible we are looking into a
mirror that reveals our flaws (James 1:23-24).
When this trial is over the Psalmist wants to come to the Word and see
that his ways throughout have been God’s ways.
·
Free to worship God (v7). We are hindered in our worship when we regard
or retain sin in our hearts. God is
properly praised by one whose heart “stands upright”.
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