Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the Lord. (Psalm 119:1)
Containing 176 verses, Psalm 119 is the longest psalm and the longest single chapter in all of sacred Scripture. Inasmuch as we do not know the identity of the earthly author, we know the heavenly One, and what Psalm 119 contains should arrest our attention and strengthen our resolve. This psalm can be divided into a several themes – such as persecutions, afflictions, and the challenges of daily living – but the theme I would like to focus on today is the importance of the Word of God.
When you read through Psalm 119, take note of the words that are used for the Scriptures: law, precepts, statues, testimonies, judgments, commandments, word, and ordinances. The Word of God is mentioned in nearly every verse; most scholars agree that only five of the 176 verses do not make a direct reference to the Scriptures.
Why should this be a source of eternal encouragement to you today? Because it not only expresses the character of the Scriptures, but the character of our Savior too. Here are just a few verses to consider as a sampling of many throughout this magnificent Psalm:
The Word of God and He who is the living Word of God are both . . .
Wonderful – V. 18
Trustworthy – V. 42
Truthful – V. 43
Righteous – V. 62
Faithful – V. 90
Eternal – V. 89
Immutable – V. 89
Light – V. 105
True – V. 160
The beauty and the blessing of the Word of God as it is set forth in this amazing chapter cannot be overstated. God’s Word is as pure as it is powerful . . . as wise as it is watchful . . . as encouraging as it is equipping . . . as life-giving as it is life-changing. God gave us His Word in a book, not for it to collect dust on a shelf, but to be meditated on and marinated in every day of our lives. The more time you spend in the Word, the better you will be able to live according to God’s perfect plan and purpose for your imperfect life.
The second verse assures us, “Blessed are they who keep his statues and seek him with all their heart.” If that describes you today, praise His mighty name! If not, you can do something about it right now. As James, the brother of our Lord, assured us, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you” (James 4:8 ESV).
I’d like to close by encouraging you to memorize verse 75, which I am sure you will find to be most helpful, especially during times of trial: “I know, O Lord, that your laws are righteous, and in faithfulness you have afflicted me.” In faithfulness – not in anger or disappointment or disgust – does our loving Lord send us storms. Let that truth keep you going, confident that God is using it all to conform you to the image of His beloved Son, Jesus.
This is the Gospel. This is grace for your race. NEVER FORGET THAT . . . AMEN!
Grace for the Race 