Shin ש: Prayer and Praise of God’s Word.
Psalm 119:161-168 (Part 21)
Rev. Dr. Devadosan Sugirtharaj
Introduction
This section of Psalm 119 is a prayer—perhaps not explicitly stated, but deeply prayerful in its spirit. The psalmist demonstrates a quiet waiting on God through steadfast obedience, even in the midst of adversity.
1.Inspired by God’s Word (Psalm 119:161-162).
The psalmist recounts his experience of being persecuted by rulers without cause. Despite not breaking any law or harming others, he faces unjust suffering, with no opportunity for appeal. In his pain, he turns to God in prayer. Significantly, these trials do not diminish his reverence for God’s word. Instead, he treasures it all the more. The Hebrew word translated as “treasure” refers to spoils won in battle, suggesting that God’s word is a hard-won, precious possession.
2. Praising God’s Word Continually (Psalm 119:163-164).
The psalmist expresses a deep hatred for falsehood and a passionate love for God’s word. God’s word stands in opposition to lies, and this truth has profoundly shaped the psalmist’s character. He praises God seven times a day in recognition of the word’s goodness and glory. In biblical symbolism, seven represents completeness and continual action, indicating ongoing and regular praise.
3. Receiving Peace from God’s Word (Psalm 119:165-166).
Loving God’s word brings the psalmist great peace and stability amid life’s storms. The text promises peace to those who cherish God’s word. The psalmist’s faith is sustained and inspired by Scripture, prompting him to trust in God and actively live out his faith.
4. Keeping God’s Word (Psalm 119:167-168).
Obedience to God’s word is both internal and external for the psalmist. He loves God’s word deeply within and lives it out in his actions. He acknowledges that his life is transparent before God, sincerely loving and wholeheartedly obeying God’s word. For him, reverence for God and His word are inseparable.
Conclusion
The psalmist’s simple prayer is a testimony to his conscious and continual love for God and His word. Despite facing hardship, he persists in praising God’s word seven times a day. He knows God’s word brings peace and inspiration, and he cherishes it deeply. We, too, have access to this precious word. Are we as eager to praise God for its greatness—constantly and continually? Do we praise God’s word daily, or only sporadically? Let us reflect on our own devotion and response to God’s word.