Introduction
Psalm 119:33–48: The psalmist prays for understanding to learn the meaning of the LORD’s laws and acknowledges that a desire to obey God’s commands is worth more than material wealth. The passage concludes with the psalmist expressing trust in God’s laws and judgments.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 119:33
Teach me, LORD, the meaning of your laws, and I will obey them at all times.
Reading
33 Teach me, Lord, the meaning of your laws,
and I will obey them at all times.
34 Explain your law to me, and I will obey it;
I will keep it with all my heart.
35 Keep me obedient to your commandments,
because in them I find happiness.
36 Give me the desire to obey your laws
rather than to get rich.
37 Keep me from paying attention to what is worthless;
be good to me, as you have promised.
38 Keep your promise to me, your servant—
the promise you make to those who obey you.
39 Save me from the insults I fear;
how wonderful are your judgments!
40 I want to obey your commands;
give me new life, for you are righteous.
41 Show me how much you love me, Lord,
and save me according to your promise.
42 Then I can answer those who insult me
because I trust in your word.
43 Enable me to speak the truth at all times,
because my hope is in your judgments.
44 I will always obey your law,
forever and ever.
45 I will live in perfect freedom,
because I try to obey your teachings.
46 I will announce your commands to kings
and I will not be ashamed.
47 I find pleasure in obeying your commands,
because I love them.
48 I respect and love your commandments;
I will meditate on your instructions.
Reflect
God gave the law to Moses shortly after freeing the people from slavery in Egypt. The law was intended to help people remain free by worshiping the Lord and living rightly, which included treating one another with justice. The psalmist realizes that perfect freedom comes by obeying God’s teachings (verse 45). What does the psalmist promise to do with his freedom (verse 46)? In what ways can obeying God’s teachings provide freedom for you?
Pray
God of life and freedom, let your teachings breathe new life into me, that I may experience your perfect freedom by learning to live according to your will with justice, mercy, and compassion. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 119:49–64: The psalmist expresses confidence in and devotion to the law of the LORD.
