Psalm 119: 1-8
The longest chapter in the Word of God begins with a declaration, “Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord.” This is not a declaration of achievement. It is one of direction, a call to a heart posture that results in deep, joy-filled contentment that transcends external circumstances. Let’s take a moment to read the first 8 verses of this magnificent celebration of the word of God.
Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the Lord!
Blessed are those who keep his testimonies,
who seek him with their whole heart,
who also do no wrong,
but walk in his ways!
You have commanded your precepts
to be kept diligently.
Oh that my ways may be steadfast
in keeping your statutes!
Then I shall not be put to shame,
having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
I will praise you with an upright heart,
when I learn your righteous rules.
I will keep your statutes;
do not utterly forsake me!
The Psalmist knows that this posture before the Lord is the place where true blessing is found. And we must know that the blessing of the Lord is far greater than the temporary happiness or the pleasures of the world.
This blessing is found in walking with the Lord, committed to His ways and to an undivided heart that abides in Him. This Spirit-empowered lifestyle leads to obedience, integrity, and humble dependence on the grace and mercy of God.”
Throughout the Word of God, the Lord makes this path clear and yet, we know that this is a continual struggle.
The Psalmist clearly relates to our struggle.
In verse 5, he shows us that while the way to blessedness is simple, it is not easy. He prays to the Lord, “Oh that my ways may be steadfast,” and he ends this stanza with a promise and a plea, “I will keep your words. Do not utterly forsake me.”
We know that the Psalmist’s promise to fulfill the word of God is humanly impossible. So, on this side of the cross, these words call us to remember the Gospel and to reflect on our utter incapability to obey word of God.
Our only hope is in the Lord Jesus! He is the only One who has fulfilled the call of Psalm 119:1-8.
He walked blamelessly in the law of the Lord. His obedience was beyond diligent – it was perfect. He sought the Father’s will with His whole heart, even through the sweat of blood, as He considered the Father’s will for His death on the cross. In spite of His perfect, sinless life, He was despised and rejected, a man of sorrows who was pierced for our transgressions. It is by the wounds of our Lord, ordained by God and carried out by sinful men, that we can be healed.
Today, let these words remind you of your great need before the Lord. Thank Him for the provision of Christ – the perfect Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. Ask and commit to a greater abiding in His Word. Seek Him there daily and cling to His Word throughout the moments of your day, that you might experience, more and more of the blessed life He gives.
Seek Him there daily, and cling to His Word throughout the moments of your day so that you might experience more and more of the blessed life He gives.
Suggested song of worship: “I Need Thee Every Hour”
