Love For God’s Word
March 25, 2024
Commentary
The psalmist gives three pleas for deliverance from suffering (vv. 153-156). (1) Appeal to the Lord’s compassion – Rescue Me (v. 153). (2) Appeal to the Lord’s ability to deliver – Redeem Me (v. 154). Salvation is far from those who refuse to seek God’s Word (v. 155). (3) Appeal to the Lord’s mercy – Revive Me (v. 156). Next, he gives three perspectives in seeking deliverance (vv. 157-159). (1) Appeal to the Lord in the face of opposition (v. 157). (2) Appeal to the Lord in hatred of disobedience (v. 158). And (3) Appeal to the Lord because of love for His Word (v. 159). God’s Word is Truth, and His Righteous Rules will endure forever (v. 160).
1. What leads to a life of obedience (vv. 161-164)?
a. Fearing (Reverencing) God’s Word in Holy Awe (v. 161).
“Princes have persecuted me without cause: but my heart stands in awe of thy Word”
b. Getting excited about God’s Word (v. 162).
“I rejoice at thy Word, as one that finds great spoil.”
c. Hating every lie but loving the truth (v. 163).
“I hate and abhor lying but thy law do I love.”
d. Praising God continually (v. 164).
“Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments.”
2. What results from a life of obedience (vv. 165-166)?
a. Peace in the present (v. 165).
“Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.”
b. Hope in the future (v. 166).
“Lord I have hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments.”
3. What motivates a life of obedience (vv. 167-168)?
a. Love for God’s Word (v. 167).
“My soul hath kept thy testimonies; and I love them exceedingly.”
b. Living in God’s presence (v. 168).
“I have kept thy precepts and thy testimonies: for all my ways are before thee.”
Application
I want to be a person who is quick to appeal to the Lord for my needs and those of others. I believe I should be more concerned about the spiritual needs than the physical needs.
Psalms 119:153– 160 (NET)
Verses not found.
Illustration: The Appeal of an Army Recruiting Office
When I pass an Army Recruiting Office I notice all the posters and slogans in the windows. They talk about travel, college, bonuses, pride and belonging. Each of those slogans appeal to visions of adventure, success, and a sense of pride. But there is something that isn’t mentioned that goes with being in the service. Sacrifice, and being willing to count the cost. (Mark Hiehle – Sermon Central).