Sabbath, September 7 – Psalm 119:41-88
1. How does David express that there is freedom in obedience? (Psalm 119:45)
2. Who are the psalmist’s companions? (Psalm 119:63)
3. What blessing can we find in trials? (Psalm 119:67, 71)
Commentary and Reflection:
The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary notes regarding Psalm 119: ” Ps. 119 sets forth the joy and happiness that come to the man who takes the law of the Lord as his counsel and guide. The psalm is acrostic, consisting of 22 sections, each containing 8 verses, representing the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet (see p. 14). In the Hebrew all the verses of the first section begin with ’ aleph , the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet; all the verses of the second section begin with beth, the second letter of the Hebrew alphabet; etc.” (SDA Bible Commentary, Introduction to Psalm 119)
The Andrews Bible Commentary adds: “The psalm’s location in the Psalms and its composition in eight verses for each strophe could point to its use during the Festival of Tabernacles that was celebrated for eight days at the inauguration of the temple under Solomon (cf. 1 Kin. 8:2) and again under Nehemiah following the Exile (cf. Neh. 8). Torah is thus the foundation of the first and second temple periods, and the reading of this poem serves as a charter for public governance and personal piety.” (Andrews Bible Commentary, Introduction to Psalm 119, “The Great Torah Psalm”)
Furthermore, the Andrews Bible Commentary states: ” It is rather a constant recital of the relationship between the “I” of the psalm and God’s torah. Thus, it serves as a personal meditation on torah, which has a much broader scope in biblical thought than just the Ten Commandments given at Mount Sinai. It represents a life in close relationship with God, and therefore meditation on torah is always a contemplation of its Giver. Torah is thus the complete revelation of His will, and Psalm 119 seeks a deeper understanding of it (cf. v. 18).” (Andrews Bible Commentary, Introduction to Psalm 119, “The Great Torah Psalm”)
Ellen G. White attributes the authorship of this psalm to David.
Here are some key insights from today’s portion:
- “So shall I keep Your law continually, forever and ever.” (v. 44)
The psalmist decides to keep God’s law, convinced it is right and best for his life. - “And I will walk at liberty, for I seek Your precepts.” (v. 45)
Obedience to God’s law brings freedom; sin binds in chains. - “It is good for me that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes.” (v. 71)
“I know, O Lord, that Your judgments are right, and that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.” (v. 75)
In trials, we learn obedience. Let us not despise the Lord’s discipline. - “The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of coins of gold and silver.” (v. 72)
Obedience to God is more valuable than any earthly treasure. The treasure of heaven cannot be stolen. - “Your hands have made me and fashioned me; give me understanding, that I may learn Your commandments.” (v. 73)
We are God’s creation. He made us with His hands and can shape our character.
Meditate today on God’s law, and let His precepts guide your life.