God’s Word Protects From Oppressors
February 23, 2020
Commentary
For the first time the word “Oppressors” (v. 121) and “oppress” (v. 122) appear in this psalm. The word means taking advantage of the underprivileged. The Jews were commanded not to oppress one another (Lev. 25:14, 17). In most generations God’s people suffer oppression while the guilty go free. When this happens, we need to remember the Lord and what He does for us. (1) The Lord is our rewarder (v. 121). The psalmist was not bragging but telling the Lord he was not guilty of anything that deserved punishment. (2) The Lord is our surety (v. 122). To become “surety” for a friend’s debts is forbidden in Scripture, lest you end up with a burden greater than you can handle (Prov. 11:15; 22:26-27). But the Son of God became surety for those who have trusted Him! (Heb. 7:22). Our surety is secure in Him, and we remain in the family of God. (3) The Lord is our master (vv. 123-125). Whenever people attack us, they also attack the Lord, for we belong to Him. He does not always prevent us from being oppressed, but He always has a good reason for allowing it to happen. (4) The Lord is our hope (vv. 126-128). God’s ways and times are not always the way we think, but the day will come when the truth will be revealed, and sin will be judged.
There is nothing more satisfying than getting to know God’s Word (vv. 129-131). God’s word is wonderful (v. 129), enlightening (v. 130), and satisfying (v. 131). There is nothing more liberating than getting to know God’s blessings (vv. 132-135). In these verses: God’s grace is required (v. 132), God’s direction is sought (v. 133a), God’s protection is requested (v. 133b), God’s deliverance is desired (v. 134), and God’s teaching of the commandments is needed (v. 135). Finally, there is nothing more tragic than ignoring God’s Law (v. 136).
Application
My desire is to constantly be building my relationship with God by getting to know His Word better and in experiencing His blessing as outlined in this passage. The only way this can be accomplished is by spending time with Him.
Psalms 119:121– 136 (NET)
121 I do what is fair and right. Do not abandon me to my oppressors.
122 Guarantee the welfare of your servant. Do not let the arrogant oppress me.
123 My eyes grow tired as I wait for your deliverance, for your reliable promise to be fulfilled.
124 Show your servant your loyal love. Teach me your statutes.
125 I am your servant. Give me insight, so that I can understand your rules.
126 It is time for the Lord to act— they break your law.
127 For this reason I love your commands more than gold, even purest gold.
128 For this reason I carefully follow all your precepts. I hate all deceitful actions. פ (Pe)
129 Your rules are marvelous. Therefore I observe them.
130 Your instructions are a doorway through which light shines. They give insight to the untrained.
131 I open my mouth and pant, because I long for your commands.
132 Turn toward me and extend mercy to me, as you typically do to your loyal followers.
133 Direct my steps by your word. Do not let any sin dominate me.
134 Deliver me from oppressive men, so that I can keep your precepts.
135 Smile on your servant. Teach me your statutes!
136 Tears stream down from my eyes, because people do not keep your law. צ (Tsade)