Read Psalm 119:41-48.
Waw
In this sixth stanza, the psalmist mentions a vocal enemy. Someone had done
more than criticize him; they taunted him about his faith. This put him
in a tight spot on several levels. He felt the pressure.
Anyone who lets their faith in Jesus be known will sooner or later encounter a
similar experience. It may come from a person at work, a neighbor, or
even a relative. Dependency on God and His Word may be seen as offensive
to them and foolish. Such reactions usually come from those who are
hurting, feeling guilty, or jealous that you have found forgiveness and purity
in Christ. But their hurtful words still hurt.
What did the writer do to overcome his feelings and get back on track?
1. He depended even more on the steadfast love of God. (vv.41-42)
He did not give in and he did not give up because of spiritual opposition.
He kept his focus on One who loves us and never changes.
2. He renewed his hope in the trustworthiness of God's Word. (vv.43-44)
The truth of God's Word will last forever. Jesus said, "Heaven and
earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away." (Matthew
24:35) You can count on them!
3. He looked to the future with increased influence for God. (vv.45-46)
In the moment, he may have felt hemmed in or powerless against the criticism.
But his hope relied on a time when God would lead him to a new level of
freedom. "In a wide place" he would have plenty of options and
opportunities to tell others of his faith in the LORD, even in the highest of
places.
4. He committed himself to learn and practice the Word of God. (vv.47-48)
Such actions involved his hands and his heart. His hands would lovingly
take hold of the Scriptures. With his mind he would meditate, turning the
truth over and over in his thinking, looking for insights and applications to
his life.
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