Day 122: Psalm 119:1-88

Psalm 119 is the longest Psalm and the longest chapter in the Bible. It's theme is the God's word, His law, His commands...and how important and precious they are. To be honest, I haven't been looking forward to reading this Psalm, It's not one of my favorites. It's interesting how it's written, that is that each of the stanzas begins with the next letter of the Hebrew alphabet, and while that's kind of impressive it doesn't come through when you read it in English. The truth is, I think it's kind of repetitious.

However, I was struck with one phrase right away. It's one thing to sing the praises of God's righteous laws and decrees but it's another thing entirely to obey them.

Oh, that my ways were steadfast
   in obeying your decrees! (v. 5)

That's the problem isn't it?

I was also struck with the connection between suffering and God's word. What I mean is that sometimes, maybe most of the time, my appreciation for God's word is increased dramatically when I'm going through tough times. These verses ring true to me:

My comfort in my suffering is this:
   Your promise preserves my life. (v. 50)

It was good for me to be afflicted
   so that I might learn your decrees. (v. 71)