Prayer For Understanding God’s Word
November 11, 2021
Commentary
The writer seems to be experiencing many trials and troubles in his life. Even though his difficulties are a result of his own weaknesses, he is not driven away from God but is drawn closer to Him. As believers we desire a deeper understanding and a greater insight into God’s Word. Verses 25 through 32 can be divided into two parts: My ways and God’s ways.
1. My ways (vv. 25-29).
a. The confession of my ways (v. 25). “My soul cleaves unto the dust.”
b. The conviction of my ways (vv. 26-27).
i. “Teach me your principles” (v. 26). We read for instruction, not only for information.
ii. “Help me understand the meaning of your commandments” (v. 27)
c. The contradiction of my ways (vv. 28-29). “Remove from me the way of lying” (v. 29).
i. Singing and praising the Lord on Sunday and living for the devil the rest of the week.
ii. Claiming we belong to Christ and not demonstrating it the way we live.
2. Thy ways (vv. 30-32).
a. The choice of God’s ways (v. 30). “I have chosen the way of truth”
b. The commitment to God’s ways (v. 31). “I cleave to your testimonies”
c. The clarity (quickness) of God’s ways (v. 32). “I will run the way of thy commandments.” I am committed and now I must respond with swiftness, without delay.
God’s leadership is the pathway to personal revival. It is not a document to be learned but a path to be followed. His route may not be the smoothest, but it is the most direct to His blessing.
1. God desires to capture our minds (vv. 33-34). He teaches and enlightens us so we can obey.
2. God desires to channel our hearts (vv. 35-37). He directs our will (v. 35a), our emotions (v. 35b), our hearts (v. 36), and our eyes (v. 37).
3. God desires to direct our focus (v. 38-40) so we can understand His Word (v. 38a), not be fearful of men (v. 38b), turn from our sinful ways (v. 39), and be obedient to His Word (v. 40).
Application
My mind tends to follow many rabbit trails, things that are far from the heart of God. My desire is to submit my mind to the teaching ministry of the Holy Spirit, and then I can hopefully stay closer to the practical application of God’s truth.
Psalms 119:25– 40 (NET)
25 I collapse in the dirt. Revive me with your word.
26 I told you about my ways and you answered me. Teach me your statutes.
27 Help me to understand what your precepts mean. Then I can meditate on your marvelous teachings.
28 I collapse from grief. Sustain me by your word.
29 Remove me from the path of deceit. Graciously give me your law.
30 I choose the path of faithfulness; I am committed to your regulations.
31 I hold fast to your rules. O Lord, do not let me be ashamed.
32 I run along the path of your commands, for you enable me to do so. ה (He)
33 Teach me, O Lord, the lifestyle prescribed by your statutes, so that I might observe it continually.
34 Give me understanding so that I might observe your law, and keep it with all my heart.
35 Guide me in the path of your commands, for I delight to walk in it.
36 Give me a desire for your rules, rather than for wealth gained unjustly.
37 Turn my eyes away from what is worthless. Revive me with your word.
38 Confirm to your servant your promise, which you made to the one who honors you.
39 Take away the insults that I dread. Indeed, your regulations are good.
40 Look, I long for your precepts. Revive me with your deliverance. ו (Vav)