Friday 24th January
Read Psalm 119:105-112
“Nun
105 Your word is a lamp for my feet,
a light on my path.
106 I have taken an oath and confirmed it,
that I will follow your righteous laws.
107 I have suffered much;
preserve my life, Lord, according to your word.
108 Accept, Lord, the willing praise of my mouth,
and teach me your laws.
109 Though I constantly take my life in my hands,
I will not forget your law.
110 The wicked have set a snare for me,
but I have not strayed from your precepts.
111 Your statutes are my heritage for ever;
they are the joy of my heart.
112 My heart is set on keeping your decrees
to the very end.” (NIVUK)
You provide a light when the path is difficult to see and when I am likely to trip over v105-112.
The next stanza continues the context of the right path and a journey. The psalmist sees that God’s directions (that He has taught) helps him to see where he should go and protects me from danger. The danger comes with darkness coming at the end of the day’s journey and the lamp is necessary to prevent tripping and injury and the light is there to show the correct path ahead. Then comes an oath to follow which is the affirmation of a pilgrim’s active role. Having made the decision and acting on it the psalmist sees aspects of life come into perspective – suffering and God’s preservation in the hard times are recognised and praise arises as there is a new understanding (teach) of God. A wayward wandering (life in my own hands) is constrained by the memory of what God desires; temptations come but God’s precepts help to keep the pilgrim on the right path. Again, it is affirmed that God’s word is the best choice for guidance for the whole of life’s journey.
Geoff Hinch
