Psalm 119:33-40 (NRSV)
Read Psalm 119:33-40 on biblegateway.com
Verse 33Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end.
Verse 34Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart.
Verse 35Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it.
Verse 36Turn my heart to your decrees, and not to selfish gain.
Verse 37Turn my eyes from looking at vanities; give me life in your ways.
Verse 38Confirm to your servant your promise, which is for those who fear you.
Verse 39Turn away the disgrace that I dread, for your ordinances are good.
Verse 40See, I have longed for your precepts; in your righteousness give me life.
Devotion
With 176 verses, this is the longest chapter in the Bible. It is divided into twenty-two stanzas having eight lines in each stanza. It would seem that our words are given GREAT direction if we are open to sharing per the guidance of Matthew, Ezekiel and John; words that are both bitter and sweet as honey. Consider:
“TEACH ME…
“GIVE ME UNDERSTANDING…
“LEAD ME…
“TURN MY HEART…
“TURN MY EYES…
“CONFIRM…YOUR PROMISE…
“TURN AWAY DISGRACE…
“SEE…YOUR PRECEPTS…”
The Psalmist surely understood, as did the Old Testament prophet, Ezekiel, and the New Testament apostles, Matthew and John, the opportunity to mold and mirror the faith in word and deed with loved ones and community. So too are we given a good outline to learn and to lead loved ones and community.
Prayer
Holy Father, may we be good learners as well as teachers of Your Word. We pray that You would keep our ears open and that our words would be acceptable to You. Amen.