A Love for God’s Word
How can a person have joy, peace, and hope in the midst of unjust opposition and persecution? This stanza in Psalm 119 says that it is love for God’s word produces these qualities in the believers life.
The psalmist begins with an acknowledgement that God’s word is more awesome than any princes that would persecute him (161). The awesome nature and great value of God’s word leads to rejoicing. Brethren, it is our love of God’s word that leads to great joy. We have God’s truth, and can reject the lies and falsehoods of this world. Rejoice, for the Scriptures are truly awe inspiring! They reveal the nature of our great God and His wonderful works on our behalf. Praise the Lord for His word continually as the psalmist does (164).
The psalmist continues by stating that those who love God’s word have abundant peace. They live without the internal conflict of a guilty conscience and are able to walk firmly without stumbling into ruin (165). To live a life of peace requires loving obedience to the commands of God (Phil 4:9). Love of God’s word also produces hope in the believer’s life (166). The believers hope is a fixed assurance that what God has promised will come to pass. Brethren we know our salvation is secure because God’s word says so (Phill 1:6).
The psalmist ends this stanza with declaring that his love for God’s word has produced a life of obedience (167-168). His love for God’s eternal word is his motivation for faithfulness and loyalty to God. He keeps God’s commands, knowing that God knows all his thoughts and actions. Brethren, our great God sees our faithfulness and we shall be vindicated and rewarded at the return of Jesus Christ.