Psalm 119:129-136 [the letter Pe]
129 Your statutes are wonderful;
therefore I obey them.
130 The unfolding of your words gives light;
it gives understanding to the simple.
131 I open my mouth and pant,
longing for your commands.
132 Turn to me and have mercy on me,
as you always do to those who love your name.
133 Direct my footsteps according to your word;
let no sin rule over me.
134 Redeem me from human oppression,
that I may obey your precepts.
135 Make your face shine on your servant
and teach me your decrees.
136 Streams of tears flow from my eyes,
for your law is not obeyed.
I read Psalm 119 aloud all at once last week, and by the time I reached verse 136, I began to cry. I had been washed by His word, and in that moment, I saw things more as they really are. How tragic it is when God’s word is not obeyed. How very sad it is in my life, in those I know, and in this world.
But what hope I also found in verse 132 - “Turn to me and have mercy on me, as you always do to those who love your name.” We cannot claim to love His name, except by the Spirit of God who lives in those who have been saved. God’s Holy Spirit in us loves the name and word of God. And His Spirit in us is here to:
Cause us to obey His ways (v. 129)
Give us light and understanding (v. 130)
Increase our longing for His word (v. 131)
Intercede for us and bring us before God’s throne of mercy (v. 132)
Direct us and let no sin rule over us (v. 133)
Redeem us that we may obey Him (v. 134)
Cause the light of Christ to shine on us, and teach us Jesus’ ways (v. 135)
Let’s pray in response to this psalm, asking God for correct sorrow for where His word is not obeyed - in us, in those near to us, and in this world. Let’s seek and depend upon His mercy, beginning with ourselves, but also for the people and places of ministry that God is giving our churches.
When you have 5-10 minutes to yourself today, read Psalm 119:113-176 aloud, asking God to help us by His word.
- BR
