TEXT: Psalm 119:25-32
READING: Psalm 25:1-22
SUBJ: The Psalmist’s prayer for instruction and understanding
AIM: That we might seek to “run the way of thy commandments…”
INTR: The Word of God is to be experienced as well as learned. The Psalmist would confess his need of living instruction and would acknowledge that commitment can only come as a result.
1. Consider some of the themes of previous stanzas: verses 7, 11, and 18 are significant.
2. Understanding is to follow instruction to be effectual in the application of the precepts of the Word in our lives.
3. Where there is a consciousness of need, the Word is our first resource accompanied by prayer.
THESIS: One of the most important evidences of a work of grace is the desire of the soul to understand the Word of God and thus be delivered from the ways of the world.
I. From quickening to understanding (vv. 25-27)
1. First, he would have it to be according to the Thy Word.
2. There is a tendency in our souls to cling to the details of the natural life – especially as we seek remedies for particular maladies and trials. Psalms 44:25 For our soul is bowed down to the dust: our belly cleaveth unto the earth. And consider the depths of the suffering of Christ as He is touched with the feeling of our infirmities.
3. The need is to be quickened and therefore:
1) Sensitive to the work of grace in our hearts – to be made the more aware of those things which are of God and those that are not.
2) Lively in the application of and receiving of the divine precepts. Mandates understood but not acted indicate a lack luster approach in devotion to duty.
3) Responsive to the Word as of living truths – As “Thy Word have I hid in my heart.” And see: Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. (James 1:21)
4. There is confession – “I have declared my ways …” and was heard
1) Teach me thy statutes
2) Make me to understand
3) “So shall I talk of thy wondrous works.”
II. Of needed strength and the removal of an obstacle (vv. 28-29)
1. My soul melts (drops) under the load and the prospects of that which seems impossible.
1) Strengthen according to thy Word
2) Remove from me the way of lying (David said elsewhere that all men are liars)
2. Grant me thy law graciously (such a bequest is certainly not deserved.)
III. A commitment to perseverance (vv. 30-32)
1. I have chosen – and thy judgments are laid before
2. I have stuck – no place else to go – “To whom shall we go?”
3. I will run – “…when thou shalt enlarge my heart.”
1) To receive instruction
2) To lay hold on understanding
3) To function to the fullest capacity.
