The Awe of Psalm 119

Recently, I challenged my senior high students to start reading through Psalm 119. I asked them just to read one section a day, approx eight verses, and write down three things that stand out to them. Of course, I would never ask them to do something that I wouldn't do myself. So for the past week, I have found myself in awe of the truths found in this amzing masterpiece of Scripture. Today I read verses 41-49.

41 Lord, give me your unfailing love,
the salvation that you promised me.
42 Then I can answer those who taunt me,
for I trust in your word.
43 Do not snatch your word of truth from me,
for your regulations are my only hope.
44 I will keep on obeying your instructions
forever and ever.
45 I will walk in freedom,
for I have devoted myself to your commandments.
46 I will speak to kings about your laws,
and I will not be ashamed.
47 How I delight in your commands!
How I love them!
48 I honor and love your commands.
I meditate on your decrees.

So much truth jumped out at me! Like in verse 41, the most perfect picture of God's unfailing love is salvation, a gift that only God can give. This truth conects perfectly with Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death, BUT the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus." Salvation is a gift, a gift of unfailing love that is only the Father's to give.

As I continued reading, verse 45 spoke loud and clear to my heart. I love how the psalmist clearly says that freedom is found when we are devoted to God's Word. When we strive to obey the Lord's commands we find peace and freedom. Our world denies this truth and says that freedom is living outside the rules of God. How untrue! True freedom can only be found in obedience to the Living Word of God. Freedom from sin, freedom from the consequences of sin, and a peace that surpasses all understanding are fruits of an obedient life.

However, the psalmist doesn't stop there with the amazing feeling of being free. He goes on and says, How I delight in your Word! This leads me to the one thing that has impacted my life the most from looking at Psalm 119. The truth that true joy and true happiness can only come from obedience. The very first verse in this chapter says it clearly, "Joyful are those who follow my commandments." The author even said in verse 14 that he rejoices in the Law as much as he does in his riches! But probably the clearest is verse 35 which reads, "Make me walk along the path of your commands,
for that is where my happiness is found."

God forgive us when we seek happiness out in so many other things! Help us to find true happiness through obedience.