It is easy to presume that Psalm 119 is only about Scripture — a defense of the authority and power of God’s Word. It is. And it isn’t.
Psalm 119 is also about the love the writer has for God’s Word. The entire psalm reflects the happiness of a man in love with God. There are numerous examples, among which are the following:
- 47 I shall delight in Your commandments, Which I love.
- 48 I shall lift up my hands to Your commandments, Which I love; And I will meditate on Your statutes
- 97 O how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day.
- 113 I hate those who are double-minded, But I love Your law.
- 119 You have removed all the wicked of the earth like dross; Therefore I love Your testimonies.
- 127 Therefore I love Your commandments Above gold, yes, above fine gold.
- 132 Turn to me and be gracious to me, After Your manner with those who love Your name.
- 159 Consider how I love Your precepts; Revive me, O LORD, according to Your lovingkindness.
- 163 I hate and despise falsehood, But I love Your law.
- 165 Those who love Your law have great peace, And nothing causes them to stumble.
- 167 My soul keeps Your testimonies, And I love them exceedingly.
Following this morning’s worship service, someone reminded me of another passage relating to our delight in the Word, quoting:
Your words were found and I ate them,
And Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart;
For I have been called by Your name,
O LORD God of hosts. [Jer. 15:16]
As you think about the Word of God, what other passages can you think of that reflect our delight in that Word?
Words of Grace 