Psalm 119:65-80
Sunday, 21 January 2024
“I know, LORD, that your laws are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.” -Psalm 119:75
The author of Psalm 119, the longest Psalm in the Bible, is certainly someone who loved God’s Word and knew the importance of studying, meditating and applying it in his life. Starting from Verse 1 up to Verse 176, the Psalm focuses on the need as well as the value of abiding in God’s Word.
A person’s faith is tested when he/she goes through trials—trials bring out the best or the worst in us. What lies behind the Psalmist’s confidence in God and His Word in times of difficulty? It was because of this intense passion for God’s Word and his deep devotion to the Lord that made him trust the Lord during his afflictions.
The Psalmist knew that only his Maker could give him insight to understand the commands given to him. So verse 73 records a Prayer asking God to give him understanding to learn His command. If we do not receive this understanding from God, we are sure to crumble in times of difficulty. Joseph was faced with many a difficult situation before living in the promises God had given him. Yet he was able to assure his brothers in Genesis 45:5: “…it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you”, because He knew that God was working through his affliction a greater plan for His glory. Romans 8: 28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.’ Joseph held on to God’s Word even when he could not see things clearly as Psalm 107:18 says he held on till what was foretold came to pass, till the Word of the Lord proved him true. Dear child of God, is your world right now in the darkness of doubt, discord or defeat? Hold on to the promises He has given you when you walked in the light, as you go through the dark days. God’s Word over your life will be fulfilled in His Perfect Time!
Next we see a Petition to a God of Unfailing love. We read in Vs.76 & &77 the Psalmist requests for comfort and compassion from God. The Psalmist tells God that only His Promise over his life can bring him comfort. Has it been a long wait for God’s promise to be fulfilled in your life? Has His delay in fulfilling His word over your life brought a disquiet and anguish in your soul? Abraham, the Father of Faith had to wait 25 long years before he experienced the comfort of a fulfilled promise in his life. What did he do during those days, months and years of waiting? Romans 4:20 records: “Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.”
Abraham knew that this God who had promised him is Faithful and His Word is dependable. Brothers & sisters in Christ, has your wait been long and difficult? Let us like Abraham during this wait, ‘not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God.’ Rather let us take this time to continue to “put our hope in His Word” (V.74) delight in His Law (V.77) and meditate on His Precepts (V. 78) till we see God’s promises fulfilled in our lives.
Quote: “The Word of God is a lamp by night, a light by day, and a delight at all times.” ~ Charles Spurgeon
Listen: 'Standing on the Promises of God'