Blog

This week, we’re in Practice #2: Grow in God’s Word. Specifically, we’ll spend four days in Psalm 119.

We will enter into God’s presence through His holy Word today. If you can, give yourself 15 minutes to just be with God. Set a timer and put everything else away except for you, your Bible, and the device you’re reading this on.

Let’s start: “God, you are good and you are true. You’ve given me your Word as a gift. Thank you that I can know you. Thank you that I can worship you. Open my mind to your truth as I contemplate your words in Psalm 119. Open my eyes - let me see You.”

Now, let’s read from the NET (New English Translation):

17  Be kind to your servant. Then I will live and keep your instructions.

18  Open my eyes so I can truly see the marvelous things in your law.

19  I am a resident foreigner in this land. Do not hide your commands from me.

20  I desperately long to know your regulations at all times.

21  You reprimand arrogant people. Those who stray from your commands are doomed.

22  Spare me shame and humiliation, for I observe your rules.

23  Though rulers plot and slander me, your servant meditates on your statutes.

24  Yes, I find delight in your rules; they give me guidance.

Read these verses once more and slowly (and out loud, if possible).

Today, we’ll employ a Bible study technique which involves making observations about the text. Specifically, write down 6-8 observations of what you learn about the Psalmist in verses 17-24. For example, “He views himself as a servant of God” (v. 17). 

Sketch out a description of the Psalmist that you’ve learned in Psalm 119 so far. What does he enjoy? What does he struggle with? How well does he know God? What does he fear? What words would you use to describe him?

Now, compare and contrast this description of the Psalmist with a description of yourself. Do you have similar or different enjoyments? Similar or different struggles? Similar or different levels of intimacy with God? Similar or different fears? What words would you use to describe yourself.

Our calling is not to conform ourselves to this Psalmist, per se, although he provides a godly example for us to follow. Above all else, the Psalmist is preoccupied with the goodness of God’s Word. Spend some time in prayer and confession as you consider how much your affections and behaviors are connected to your passion for God’s Word. Are you preoccupied with God and the truth you learn about Him in Scripture?

As we close, find a piece of paper (or use the Notes app in your phone) to write out verse 18: “Open my eyes so I can truly see the marvelous things in your law.” Pray it for yourself. Ask God to open your eyes either for the first time or the thousandth time to be able to understand and discern the beauty that exists in the words of Scripture. Ask Him to fill you with a longing to spend time with Him. Take this verse with you and use it throughout the day as a prayer of expectation. Pray this for your family, your kids, your friends.