Psalm 119 can be described as the Psalm of the Word of God. It is the longest chapter in the Bible, and it primarily focuses on God’s Word. One unique feature of the psalm is that it is an alphabetic acrostic “in which each stanza of eight verses is devoted to successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet, each verse of a particular stanza beginning with the same letter.”[1] In the third section (verses 17-24), every verse begins with the Hebrew letter ג Gimel.
Psalm 119:17-24 reflects many qualities, one of which is an appreciation for God’s Word. The psalmist knew that God’s Word not only provided blessings but also helps us navigate through life’s many challenges. Even though he felt alone at certain times, meditating on God’s Word caused him delight. Unlike the wicked, one distinguishing characteristic of a godly person is their delight in God’s Word.[2]
“When you truly delight in the Word, you will have a desire to meditate on it and make it a part of your life. In Psalm 119, the writer connects “delight” and “meditation.” Cultivate an appetite for the Word of God.”[3]
In light of this, we should desire in our hearts to grow in appreciation for the Word of God. One way to know your heart’s condition is to consider how much you hunger for God’s Word. Just like our physical health affects our appetite, our spiritual health affects our appetite for God's Word. The psalmist said that he longed (taabah) for time in the Word. Do you?
“It is good when our thirst for the Scriptures is enormous and unflagging. The psalmist’s soul was eaten up with longing for the Word, and he had this ardent, intense longing at all times.”[4]
In the third section, we learn that one quality that the godly person should have is an appreciation for God’s Word. God’s Word provides countless blessings as well as help throughout our lives. Why not pray that the Lord would increase your desire for His Word every day.
“Your testimonies also are my delight.” Psalm 119:24a NASB 95
Blessings,
Pastor Steven
[1] The Ryrie Study Bible, Updated NASB 95 Edition, pg. 941.
[2] See Psalm 40:8, 112:1, 119:11; Job 23:12; Jer. 15:16; Col. 3:16.
[3] Warren Wiersbe. With the Word.
[4] Believer’s Bible Commentary, pg. 674.