Psalm 119:93
Psalm 119:93
I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have given me life.
Introduction
Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible and is a treasure trove of meditations on the law of the Lord and its impact on the believer's life. Verse 93 stands out as a personal declaration of the psalmist's commitment to God's commandments, attributing to them the very essence of life itself.
Commentary
In this verse, the psalmist vows never to forget God's precepts. The commitment to "never forget" indicates a continuous, conscious effort to keep God's laws at the forefront of daily life. This verse emphasizes the life-giving power of God’s statutes, not just in a physical sense but also in a spiritual and moral sense. The psalmist sees the commandments as more than rules; they are sources of vitality and guidance.
Understanding Context
Psalm 119 is an acrostic poem, probably designed for memorization, using the Hebrew alphabet to start each section. This structure underscores the theme of the Psalm—a meditation on and adherence to the word of God. The psalmist uses terms like "precepts," "statutes," "commandments," and "law" interchangeably to express the various facets of God’s revealed will. In this specific verse, the focus is on the transformative and sustaining power of these divine instructions.
Application for Today
Today, believers can take to heart the same timeless truth that guided the psalmist: the word of God is vital for our spiritual survival and growth. In a world full of distractions and challenges, remembering and living out God’s precepts can guide us through moral and ethical dilemmas and lead us toward a life that is truly alive in the spiritual sense. This might mean daily Bible reading, meditation, and application of scripture in personal decision-making processes.
Reflection
How often do we consider God's commandments the source of life? Reflecting on this verse can help us ask ourselves how deeply we value God's word in our lives. Do we see His laws as restrictions or as the profound source of life and wisdom they are intended to be? Engaging with this verse invites us to recommit to cherishing and living by God's precepts daily.
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
