Psalm 119: God’s Word is Our Counselor

I. Introduction: Psalm 119 is  the longest chapter in the Bible and functions as a grand exclamation of the psalmist’s love for God’s word. The psalm is an acrostic poem, divided into 22 sections, each commencing with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet and each verse within the sections beginning with the same letter. The overarching theme of the Psalm is the guidance that the Word of God provides in our lives.

II. Psalm 119:1-8 – Blessed are Those Who Walk in God’s Law

This section opens with a beatitude, “Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD” (Psalm 119:1). This echoes the sentiments found in Psalm 1:1-2, and Proverbs 8:32. The psalmist acknowledges the blessings that come from obedience to God’s laws and commandments. It expresses a deep longing to consistently walk in God’s ways (Joshua 1:8).

III. Psalm 119:9-16 – The Word of God Keeps Us Pure

The psalmist asks, “How can a young man cleanse his way?” and answers, “By taking heed according to Your word” (Psalm 119:9). This section emphasizes the purifying power of God’s Word, similar to the expressions found in John 15:3 and Ephesians 5:26. The psalmist’s delight in God’s statutes is echoed in Jeremiah 15:16.

IV. Psalm 119:17-24 – God’s Word is our Counselor

The psalmist pleads for God’s favor so he may live and keep God’s Word, and he declares God’s testimonies as his delight and counselors (Psalm 119:24). This section reflects the understanding that God’s word gives direction and guidance as seen in Psalm 32:8 and Proverbs 3:5-6.

V. Psalm 119:25-32 – Revival through God’s Word

The psalmist prays for revival through God’s Word in verses 25-32. He shows a deep dependence on God’s Word for life and strength, a sentiment repeated in Deuteronomy 8:3 and Matthew 4:4.

VI. Psalm 119:33-40 – A Prayer for Understanding

Psalm 119:33-40 reflects the psalmist’s desire for understanding God’s laws. It resonates with the teachings of Proverbs 2:6, James 1:5 that God gives wisdom and understanding to those who ask.

VII. Psalm 119:129-136 – The Illuminating Power of God’s Word

The psalmist states, “Your testimonies are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them. The entrance of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” (Psalm 119:129-130). This resonates with 2 Corinthians 4:6, and Proverbs 6:23, showing God’s Word enlightens the believer, giving wisdom and guidance.

VIII. Conclusion: Psalm 119 is a divine guide, emphasizing the importance of God’s Word in every facet of life. The psalmist’s deep love for God’s Law, his desire for understanding, and his reliance on God’s Word for guidance and strength permeate every verse. The psalmist found comfort, guidance, and strength in God’s Word and so should we, as believers today. It underscores the timeless truth that God’s Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105), it keeps us pure (Ephesians 5:26), and it gives us wisdom (Proverbs 2:6). It is a divine guide leading us to walk in the path of righteousness.