Scripture: Psalm 119:9-16 Commentary
9 How can a young person stay pure?
By obeying your word.
10 I have tried hard to find you—
don’t let me wander from your commands.
11 I have hidden your word in my heart,
that I might not sin against you.
12 I praise you, O Lord;
teach me your decrees.
13 I have recited aloud
all the regulations you have given us.
14 I have rejoiced in your laws
as much as in riches.
15 I will study your commandments
and reflect on your ways.
16 I will delight in your decrees
and not forget your word. (NLT)*
Observation:
“Your” and “I” appear in nearly every verse of this stanza. God’s Word calls for collaboration in transforming us. The psalmist obeys it (v.9), hides it (v.11), recites it aloud (v.13), rejoices in it (v.14), studies it, reflects on it (v.15), delights in it, and remembers it (v.16). The word itself is active. God’s Word purifies us (v.9), keeps us from wandering (v.10), prevents us sinning (v.11), teaches us (v.12), and enriches us (v.14). No wonder the psalmist praises the Lord.
Application:
Although studying and remembering are solitary activities, God wants the wealth of his words on display in me. Praising, rejoicing, and reciting aloud are activities heard and seen by other believers. When I obey God’s Word, my transformed life testifies to believer and unbeliever alike that his word is true.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for engaging and transforming me through your word. Teach me your decrees. Empower me to obey them. Keep me from wandering away from your path. Forgive me when I fail, and lead me to a deeper knowledge of your Word made flesh, Jesus. In whose name, I pray. Amen.
*(NLT) New Living Translation copyright© 1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation, Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.