Tuesday 14th January
Read Psalm 119:25-32
“Daleth
25 I am laid low in the dust;
preserve my life according to your word.
26 I gave an account of my ways and you answered me;
teach me your decrees.
27 Cause me to understand the way of your precepts,
that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds.
28 My soul is weary with sorrow;
strengthen me according to your word.
29 Keep me from deceitful ways;
be gracious to me and teach me your law.
30 I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
I have set my heart on your laws.
31 I hold fast to your statutes, Lord;
do not let me be put to shame.
32 I run in the path of your commands,
for you have broadened my understanding.” (NIVUK)
The journey path is straight ahead when I listen. v25-32.
From the ‘meditation’ of the last stanza comes a recognition of the rebuke (laid low) of God’s words. Why, because when the psalmist has thought through actions and attitudes and possibly even tried to justify them (gave an account) he realised God was not impressed with the choices made and the directions taken! Therefore, the request is for God to preserve him, it’s a request for help to understand more and more of God’s words that will motivate careful consideration (meditate) on the wonderful things (deeds) God has and will do, on God’s greatness and goodness. However, the reality is that right now the psalmist is despondent (weary with sorrow) as he contemplates God’s rebuke and recognises that there is a need to be strengthened by God’s gracious teaching and listening and learning to take a different path (avoid deceitful ways), to do God’s will. Then comes a decision, yes, I will (set my heart) follow the new path God has shown me (the way of faithfulness) and not turn to left or right (hold fast) so I won’t have ‘egg on my face’ (shame) again. The motivation for this decision may be personal shame but also a desire not to ‘disappoint’ God. Suddenly the path ahead seems so smooth (broadened = straight or level or downhill?) and I can run as you direct Lord;understanding of your word brings a clarity to the path ahead. I’m off and running this time!
Geoff Hinch
