• By Rev. Devadosan Sugirtharaj
  • Posted 10/06/2025


Shin ש: Prayer and Praise of Gods 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 Gods word. Instead, he treasures it all the more. The Hebrew word translated as treasure” refers to spoils won in battle, suggesting that Gods word is a hard-won, precious possession.

 

2. Praising Gods Word Continually (Psalm 119:163-164).

The psalmist expresses a deep hatred for falsehood and a passionate love for Gods word. Gods word stands in opposition to lies, and this truth has profoundly shaped the psalmists character. He praises God seven times a day in recognition of the words goodness and glory. In biblical symbolism, seven represents completeness and continual action, indicating ongoing and regular praise.

 

3. Receiving Peace from Gods Word (Psalm 119:165-166).

Loving Gods word brings the psalmist great peace and stability amid lifes storms. The text promises peace to those who cherish Gods word. The psalmists faith is sustained and inspired by Scripture, prompting him to trust in God and actively live out his faith.

 

4.  Keeping Gods Word (Psalm 119:167-168).

Obedience to Gods word is both internal and external for the psalmist. He loves Gods word deeply within and lives it out in his actions. He acknowledges that his life is transparent before God, sincerely loving and wholeheartedly obeying Gods word. For him, reverence for God and His word are inseparable.

 

Conclusion

The psalmists simple prayer is a testimony to his conscious and continual love for God and His word. Despite facing hardship, he persists in praising Gods word seven times a day. He knows Gods 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 Gods word daily, or only sporadically? Let us reflect on our own devotion and response to Gods word.


COMMENTS



POST A COMMENT

Please contact webmaster if you have problems seeing this image code Load New Code

Pastor

Pastor
Email: pastor@inchristwc.org
Tel: 240-733-4813

Calendar


Our Service

Starting 05 September 2021 (Sunday), join us for in-person worship at the church. If you are unable to attend, join us on YouTube Live. The service will be held in English and Tamil. To get in touch with us, please call the Pastor.

O Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. Psalm 34:8

We worship at...
Trinity Lutheran Church
11200 Old Georgetown Rd
Bethesda, MD 20852

Metro Transportation

Church is conveniently located 0.85 miles from White Flint and 1.25 miles from Grosvenor Metro Station (Red Line). We can pick you from the metro station. Metro Transit

Happy to give a ride

If you need a ride to join us from anywhere in MD, DC and VA, please email or call the pastor.