"It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees. The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold."

Psalm 119:71-72

Think of Psalm 119 as a poem written by a person looking at everything through the lens of God’s Word. That’s what brings order both to this psalm and to our lives. Think about three images in our text.

The first is the image of pondering God and his Word in the night (v. 55). This is not a better technique for drifting off to sleep. Rather, the psalmist understands that night-time can be an opportunity to draw closer to God, which helps us to obey him in the day.

Second, resonated with the phrase, ‘I have considered my ways’ (v. 59). Each day, jot down one experience where you sensed God at work and use it as a starting point for prayer. It can be a meaningful spiritual discipline.

The third thing is the idea that our sin can help us obey God’s Word (v. 67). Our failings in the past can motivate us to greater alignment with God’s Word in the future. Therefore, we, like the psalmist, should thank God for both the pain and the blessing of forgiven sin.

CLOSING PRAYER

Thank you, Father, for the gift of your Word that is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path. Help me to seek you through it and to learn more of your love and direction for me. Use it to draw me closer to you and to serve you more faithfully.

(edited from Encounter with God)