Psalm 119:17-32

 


Psalm 119 is the longest psalm in the Bible. It consists of 22 sections, one for each of the letters in the Hebrew alphabet in order.  Each section has 8 verses, all beginning with that Hebrew letter in the original language. The theme of the psalm is love for God's Word. Several terms are used throughout the psalm to refer to God's Word: 
  • Law (torah) - instruction or teaching
  • Testimonies (edot) - associated with testifying to God's will according to the covenant
  • Precepts (piqqudim) - details on actions to take
  • Statutes or Decrees (huqqim) - authoritative written orders prescribed by God
  • Commandments (miswot) - commands or orders
  • Rules or Judgments or Ordinances (mispatim) - ruling or judgment on what is right and wrong
  • Word or Promise (dabar, imrah) - spoken promises or revelation
Other terms that may also be considered referencing Divine wisdom and revelation are "ways" or "way."

Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on verses 17-24 (GIMEL) and 25-32 (DALETH) of this psalm:
  • Verses 17-24
    • As a servant of God's Kingdom and a stranger in this world, why should my soul be "consumed with longing" (v. 20) for God's word?
    • What do I learn about God and His Word through the GIMEL section?
  • Verses 25-32
    • The psalmist begins this section "clinging to the dust" (v. 25) but by the end of the section, he is "running in the way" (v. 32). Whenever we are "laid low," how can God's word help pick us up to keep running in His way? 
    • What does it mean for God to "enlarge my heart" (v. 32)?
    • What do I learn about God and His Word through the DALETH section?

If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video:
  • "Open My Eyes" by Fountainview Academy: Link


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Psalm 149

Image
  Psalm 149 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  These praise psalms begin and end with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!"  This psalm is likely a victory song of praise from God's People to their King for deliverance but also judgment against their enemies. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-5 God's people are called to praise Him no matter where we are, together in assembly (v. 1) as well as alone in our beds (v. 5).  What do these verses teach us about praising the LORD? The last part of verse 4 may be translated "crowns the humble with victory," "adorns the afflicted with salvation," "beautifies the meek with salvation," "glorifies the lowly with salvation," or "exalts the oppressed by delivering them."  C.H. Spurgeon says that each "gives a new shade of meaning, well worthy
Read more

Psalm 120

Image
  Psalm 120 is the first in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). The Feasts may typically be associated with joy, celebration, and worship, however in Psalm 120, the psalmist is crying out to the LORD in distress.  He is facing lies and deceit, such as from those in the foreign lands around him who hate peace. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 Why would it be better to turn to the LORD when facing "lying lips" and "a deceitful tongue"? Verses 5-7 What can we do when we live "among those who hate peace"? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "I Cry Unto the Lord" (Psalm 120) by Timeless Vocal Tapestry: Link
Read more

Psalm 142

Image
  Psalm 142 is in the last set of those attributed to David (138-145). This is a cave psalm (like Psalm 57), likely when David was fleeing from Saul and hid in a cave when his life was in danger. Thus, this is a prayer, crying out to the LORD for deliverance. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 What are some troubles that drive me to cry out to the LORD? Verses 3-7 When we feel overwhelmed, afraid, and alone, how is God our refuge, portion, deliverer? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Psalm 142" by Calvary Westlake:  Link
Read more