Contemplating God’s Commandments
The world that we live in today is no different than the world of the psalmist in its opposition to God’s will and His people. In these verses (17-24), the psalmist clings to God’s word in the midst of opposition and hardship.
The psalmist begins with a prayer asking God to deal bountifully with him so that he would continue to live and obey God’s word (17). He also prays that God would illuminate his mind that he would be able to gaze intently at the profound truths God revealed to His people (18). Brethren, God illuminates the minds of believers to understand the proper interpretation of His word and then be able to to appraise their circumstances in light of God’s truth (1 Cor2:14-15).
In the midst of “soul crushing” opposition to God’s ordinances, the psalmist feels like a sojourner on the earth (19-20). He prays in desperation for God to continue to give His revelation and instruction. His soul longs for God’s truth that gives him guidance and hope. Brethren, God as promised to work all things for our good (Rom 8:28).
The psalmist clings to God’s word asking God to remove the reproach that he has incurred from his enemies (21-24). God rebukes the activities of the arrogant who treat Him and His people with contempt (21). Unlike believers who are blessed, these arrogant men are under God’s curse. He is praying for God to remove the difficult people because he has been reproached for His obedience to God’s word (22).
Even though the civil authorities conspire against him, he constantly meditates upon God’s word (23). He finds comfort and counsel in God’s testimonies (24).