Located in the middle of the Bible is Psalm 119. It is the longest Psalm and the longest chapter in the Bible. It is written as an Acrostic poem and it is broken down into 22 sections. Each section starts with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet and each verse in the section starts with the same letter. Of course this is more noticeable in the original Hebrew writing, but it is significant because this structure made it easier for people to memorize and pass along to others.
Each verse in Psalm 119 could stand on its own. Matthew Henry, who was a Bible commentator in the 18th century, grew up meditating on a verse per day from Psalm 119. His father taught him to do this and told him, “That will bring you to be in love with all the rest of the scriptures”. Perhaps this is why Matthew Henry went on to write Bible commentaries. We become very close to what we meditate on every day.
I thought of this while I read through all 176 verses of Psalm 119. Almost every verse mentions God’s Word. The author refers to the word as precepts, commands, principles, laws, commandments, ways, truths, and decrees. He is constantly redirecting all things back to God and His truth. There are verses of praise, anguish, despair, trial, and blessing. And after each proclamation of these human feelings there is a reminder that God’s word is the firm foundation that we stand on in the midst of struggle and praise. It is the answer to all things if we will recognize it and ask God for help.
Psalm 119:25-32 “I lie in the dust, completely discouraged; revive me by your word. I told you my plans, and you answered. Now teach me your principles. Help me understand the meaning of your commandments, and I will meditate on your wonderful miracles. I weep with grief, encourage me by your word. Keep me from lying to myself; give me the privilege of knowing your law. I have chosen to be faithful; I have determined to live by your laws. I cling to your decrees. Lord, don’t let me be put to shame! If you will help me, I will run to follow your commands.”
Do you hear yourself in any of the above verses? There is hope when we take all of our cares to Him and look for His guidance and not our own. There have been many opportunities to draw close to Jesus over the past year. It has made all the difference in my life. I pray the same for you!