Psalms 119:1-88
Psalms 119:1-88 The Message (MSG)
You’re blessed when you stay on course, walking steadily on the road revealed by GOD. You’re blessed when you follow his directions, doing your best to find him. That’s right—you don’t go off on your own; you walk straight along the road he set. You, GOD, prescribed the right way to live; now you expect us to live it. Oh, that my steps might be steady, keeping to the course you set; Then I’d never have any regrets in comparing my life with your counsel. I thank you for speaking straight from your heart; I learn the pattern of your righteous ways. I’m going to do what you tell me to do; don’t ever walk off and leave me. * * * How can a young person live a clean life? By carefully reading the map of your Word. I’m single-minded in pursuit of you; don’t let me miss the road signs you’ve posted. I’ve banked your promises in the vault of my heart so I won’t sin myself bankrupt. Be blessed, GOD; train me in your ways of wise living. I’ll transfer to my lips all the counsel that comes from your mouth; I delight far more in what you tell me about living than in gathering a pile of riches. I ponder every morsel of wisdom from you, I attentively watch how you’ve done it. I relish everything you’ve told me of life, I won’t forget a word of it. * * * Be generous with me and I’ll live a full life; not for a minute will I take my eyes off your road. Open my eyes so I can see what you show me of your miracle-wonders. I’m a stranger in these parts; give me clear directions. My soul is starved and hungry, ravenous!— insatiable for your nourishing commands. And those who think they know so much, ignoring everything you tell them—let them have it! Don’t let them mock and humiliate me; I’ve been careful to do just what you said. While bad neighbors maliciously gossip about me, I’m absorbed in pondering your wise counsel. Yes, your sayings on life are what give me delight; I listen to them as to good neighbors! * * * I’m feeling terrible—I couldn’t feel worse! Get me on my feet again. You promised, remember? When I told my story, you responded; train me well in your deep wisdom. Help me understand these things inside and out so I can ponder your miracle-wonders. My sad life’s dilapidated, a falling-down barn; build me up again by your Word. Barricade the road that goes Nowhere; grace me with your clear revelation. I choose the true road to Somewhere, I post your road signs at every curve and corner. I grasp and cling to whatever you tell me; GOD, don’t let me down! I’ll run the course you lay out for me if you’ll just show me how. * * * GOD, teach me lessons for living so I can stay the course. Give me insight so I can do what you tell me— my whole life one long, obedient response. Guide me down the road of your commandments; I love traveling this freeway! Give me an appetite for your words of wisdom, and not for piling up loot. Divert my eyes from toys and trinkets, invigorate me on the pilgrim way. Affirm your promises to me— promises made to all who fear you. Deflect the harsh words of my critics— but what you say is always so good. See how hungry I am for your counsel; preserve my life through your righteous ways! * * * Let your love, GOD, shape my life with salvation, exactly as you promised; Then I’ll be able to stand up to mockery because I trusted your Word. Don’t ever deprive me of truth, not ever— your commandments are what I depend on. Oh, I’ll guard with my life what you’ve revealed to me, guard it now, guard it ever; And I’ll stride freely through wide open spaces as I look for your truth and your wisdom; Then I’ll tell the world what I find, speak out boldly in public, unembarrassed. I cherish your commandments—oh, how I love them!— relishing every fragment of your counsel. * * * Remember what you said to me, your servant— I hang on to these words for dear life! These words hold me up in bad times; yes, your promises rejuvenate me. The haters hate me without mercy, but I don’t budge from your revelation. I watch for your ancient landmark words, and know I’m on the right track. But when I see the wicked ignore your directions, I’m beside myself with anger. I set your instructions to music and sing them as I walk this pilgrim way. I meditate on your name all night, GOD, treasuring your revelation, O GOD. Still, I walk through a rain of derision because I live by your Word and counsel. * * * Because you have satisfied me, GOD, I promise to do everything you say. I beg you from the bottom of my heart: smile, be gracious to me just as you promised. When I took a long, careful look at your ways, I got my feet back on the trail you blazed. I was up at once, didn’t drag my feet, was quick to follow your orders. The wicked hemmed me in—there was no way out— but not for a minute did I forget your plan for me. I get up in the middle of the night to thank you; your decisions are so right, so true—I can’t wait till morning! I’m a friend and companion of all who fear you, of those committed to living by your rules. Your love, GOD, fills the earth! Train me to live by your counsel. * * * Be good to your servant, GOD; be as good as your Word. Train me in good common sense; I’m thoroughly committed to living your way. Before I learned to answer you, I wandered all over the place, but now I’m in step with your Word. You are good, and the source of good; train me in your goodness. The godless spread lies about me, but I focus my attention on what you are saying; They’re bland as a bucket of lard, while I dance to the tune of your revelation. My troubles turned out all for the best— they forced me to learn from your textbook. Truth from your mouth means more to me than striking it rich in a gold mine. * * * With your very own hands you formed me; now breathe your wisdom over me so I can understand you. When they see me waiting, expecting your Word, those who fear you will take heart and be glad. I can see now, GOD, that your decisions are right; your testing has taught me what’s true and right. Oh, love me—and right now!—hold me tight! just the way you promised. Now comfort me so I can live, really live; your revelation is the tune I dance to. Let the fast-talking tricksters be exposed as frauds; they tried to sell me a bill of goods, but I kept my mind fixed on your counsel. Let those who fear you turn to me for evidence of your wise guidance. And let me live whole and holy, soul and body, so I can always walk with my head held high. * * * I’m homesick—longing for your salvation; I’m waiting for your word of hope. My eyes grow heavy watching for some sign of your promise; how long must I wait for your comfort? There’s smoke in my eyes—they burn and water, but I keep a steady gaze on the instructions you post. How long do I have to put up with all this? How long till you haul my tormentors into court? The arrogant godless try to throw me off track, ignorant as they are of God and his ways. Everything you command is a sure thing, but they harass me with lies. Help! They’ve pushed and pushed—they never let up— but I haven’t relaxed my grip on your counsel. In your great love revive me so I can alertly obey your every word. * * *
Psalms 119:1-88 King James Version (KJV)
Blessed are the undefiled in the way, Who walk in the law of the LORD. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, And that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: They walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us To keep thy precepts diligently. O that my ways were directed To keep thy statutes! Then shall I not be ashamed, When I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, When I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, That I might not sin against thee. Blessed art thou, O LORD: Teach me thy statutes. With my lips have I declared All the judgments of thy mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, As much as in all riches. I will meditate in thy precepts, And have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word. Deal bountifully with thy servant, That I may live, and keep thy word. Open thou mine eyes, That I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. I am a stranger in the earth: Hide not thy commandments from me. My soul breaketh for the longing That it hath unto thy judgments at all times. Thou hast rebuked the proud That are cursed, which do err from thy commandments. Remove from me reproach and contempt: For I have kept thy testimonies. Princes also did sit and speak against me: But thy servant did meditate in thy statutes. Thy testimonies also are My delight and my counsellors. My soul cleaveth unto the dust: Quicken thou me according to thy word. I have declared my ways, and thou heardest me: Teach me thy statutes. Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: So shall I talk of thy wondrous works. My soul melteth for heaviness: Strengthen thou me according unto thy word. Remove from me the way of lying: And grant me thy law graciously. I have chosen the way of truth: Thy judgments have I laid before me. I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O LORD, put me not to shame. I will run the way of thy commandments, When thou shalt enlarge my heart. Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; And I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; Yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; For therein do I delight. Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, And not to covetousness. Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; And quicken thou me in thy way. Stablish thy word Unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear. Turn away my reproach which I fear: For thy judgments are good. Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: Quicken me in thy righteousness. Let thy mercies come also unto me, O LORD, Even thy salvation, according to thy word. So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: For I trust in thy word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth; For I have hoped in thy judgments. So shall I keep thy law continually for ever and ever. And I will walk at liberty: For I seek thy precepts. I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, And will not be ashamed. And I will delight myself In thy commandments, which I have loved. My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; And I will meditate in thy statutes. Remember the word unto thy servant, Upon which thou hast caused me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction: For thy word hath quickened me. The proud have had me greatly in derision: Yet have I not declined from thy law. I remembered thy judgments of old, O LORD; And have comforted myself. Horror hath taken hold upon me Because of the wicked that forsake thy law. Thy statutes have been my songs In the house of my pilgrimage. I have remembered thy name, O LORD, in the night, and have kept thy law. This I had, because I kept thy precepts. Thou art my portion, O LORD: I have said that I would keep thy words. I intreated thy favour with my whole heart: Be merciful unto me according to thy word. I thought on my ways, And turned my feet unto thy testimonies. I made haste, and delayed not To keep thy commandments. The bands of the wicked have robbed me: But I have not forgotten thy law. At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee Because of thy righteous judgments. I am a companion of all them That fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts. The earth, O LORD, is full of Thy mercy: Teach me thy statutes. Thou hast dealt well with thy servant, O LORD, according unto thy word. Teach me good judgment and knowledge: For I have believed thy commandments. Before I was afflicted I went astray: But now have I kept thy word. Thou art good, and doest good; Teach me thy statutes. The proud have forged a lie against me: But I will keep thy precepts with my whole heart. Their heart is as fat as grease; But I delight in thy law. It is good for me that I have been afflicted; That I might learn thy statutes. The law of thy mouth is better unto me Than thousands of gold and silver. Thy hands have made me and fashioned me: Give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments. They that fear thee will be glad when they see me; Because I have hoped in thy word. I know, O LORD, that thy judgments are right, And that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me. Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, According to thy word unto thy servant. Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live: For thy law is my delight. Let the proud be ashamed; for they dealt perversely with me without a cause: But I will meditate in thy precepts. Let those that fear thee turn unto me, And those that have known thy testimonies. Let my heart be sound in thy statutes; That I be not ashamed. My soul fainteth for thy salvation: But I hope in thy word. Mine eyes fail for thy word, Saying, When wilt thou comfort me? For I am become like a bottle in the smoke; Yet do I not forget thy statutes. How many are the days of thy servant? When wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me? The proud have digged pits for me, Which are not after thy law. All thy commandments are faithful: They persecute me wrongfully; help thou me. They had almost consumed me upon earth; But I forsook not thy precepts. Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; So shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth.
Psalms 119:1-88 New American Standard Bible - NASB 1995 (NASB1995)
How blessed are those whose way is blameless, Who walk in the law of the LORD. How blessed are those who observe His testimonies, Who seek Him with all their heart. They also do no unrighteousness; They walk in His ways. You have ordained Your precepts, That we should keep them diligently. Oh that my ways may be established To keep Your statutes! Then I shall not be ashamed When I look upon all Your commandments. I shall give thanks to You with uprightness of heart, When I learn Your righteous judgments. I shall keep Your statutes; Do not forsake me utterly! How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Your word. With all my heart I have sought You; Do not let me wander from Your commandments. Your word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against You. Blessed are You, O LORD; Teach me Your statutes. With my lips I have told of All the ordinances of Your mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, As much as in all riches. I will meditate on Your precepts And regard Your ways. I shall delight in Your statutes; I shall not forget Your word. Deal bountifully with Your servant, That I may live and keep Your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold Wonderful things from Your law. I am a stranger in the earth; Do not hide Your commandments from me. My soul is crushed with longing After Your ordinances at all times. You rebuke the arrogant, the cursed, Who wander from Your commandments. Take away reproach and contempt from me, For I observe Your testimonies. Even though princes sit and talk against me, Your servant meditates on Your statutes. Your testimonies also are my delight; They are my counselors. My soul cleaves to the dust; Revive me according to Your word. I have told of my ways, and You have answered me; Teach me Your statutes. Make me understand the way of Your precepts, So I will meditate on Your wonders. My soul weeps because of grief; Strengthen me according to Your word. Remove the false way from me, And graciously grant me Your law. I have chosen the faithful way; I have placed Your ordinances before me. I cling to Your testimonies; O LORD, do not put me to shame! I shall run the way of Your commandments, For You will enlarge my heart. Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes, And I shall observe it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may observe Your law And keep it with all my heart. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, For I delight in it. Incline my heart to Your testimonies And not to dishonest gain. Turn away my eyes from looking at vanity, And revive me in Your ways. Establish Your word to Your servant, As that which produces reverence for You. Turn away my reproach which I dread, For Your ordinances are good. Behold, I long for Your precepts; Revive me through Your righteousness. May Your lovingkindnesses also come to me, O LORD, Your salvation according to Your word; So I will have an answer for him who reproaches me, For I trust in Your word. And do not take the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, For I wait for Your ordinances. So I will keep Your law continually, Forever and ever. And I will walk at liberty, For I seek Your precepts. I will also speak of Your testimonies before kings And shall not be ashamed. I shall delight in Your commandments, Which I love. And I shall lift up my hands to Your commandments, Which I love; And I will meditate on Your statutes. Remember the word to Your servant, In which You have made me hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, That Your word has revived me. The arrogant utterly deride me, Yet I do not turn aside from Your law. I have remembered Your ordinances from of old, O LORD, And comfort myself. Burning indignation has seized me because of the wicked, Who forsake Your law. Your statutes are my songs In the house of my pilgrimage. O LORD, I remember Your name in the night, And keep Your law. This has become mine, That I observe Your precepts. The LORD is my portion; I have promised to keep Your words. I sought Your favor with all my heart; Be gracious to me according to Your word. I considered my ways And turned my feet to Your testimonies. I hastened and did not delay To keep Your commandments. The cords of the wicked have encircled me, But I have not forgotten Your law. At midnight I shall rise to give thanks to You Because of Your righteous ordinances. I am a companion of all those who fear You, And of those who keep Your precepts. The earth is full of Your lovingkindness, O LORD; Teach me Your statutes. You have dealt well with Your servant, O LORD, according to Your word. Teach me good discernment and knowledge, For I believe in Your commandments. Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep Your word. You are good and do good; Teach me Your statutes. The arrogant have forged a lie against me; With all my heart I will observe Your precepts. Their heart is covered with fat, But I delight in Your law. It is good for me that I was afflicted, That I may learn Your statutes. The law of Your mouth is better to me Than thousands of gold and silver pieces. Your hands made me and fashioned me; Give me understanding, that I may learn Your commandments. May those who fear You see me and be glad, Because I wait for Your word. I know, O LORD, that Your judgments are righteous, And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me. O may Your lovingkindness comfort me, According to Your word to Your servant. May Your compassion come to me that I may live, For Your law is my delight. May the arrogant be ashamed, for they subvert me with a lie; But I shall meditate on Your precepts. May those who fear You turn to me, Even those who know Your testimonies. May my heart be blameless in Your statutes, So that I will not be ashamed. My soul languishes for Your salvation; I wait for Your word. My eyes fail with longing for Your word, While I say, “When will You comfort me?” Though I have become like a wineskin in the smoke, I do not forget Your statutes. How many are the days of Your servant? When will You execute judgment on those who persecute me? The arrogant have dug pits for me, Men who are not in accord with Your law. All Your commandments are faithful; They have persecuted me with a lie; help me! They almost destroyed me on earth, But as for me, I did not forsake Your precepts. Revive me according to Your lovingkindness, So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.
Psalms 119:1-88 New Century Version (NCV)
Happy are those who live pure lives, who follow the LORD’s teachings. Happy are those who keep his rules, who try to obey him with their whole heart. They don’t do what is wrong; they follow his ways. LORD, you gave your orders to be obeyed completely. I wish I were more loyal in obeying your demands. Then I would not be ashamed when I study your commands. When I learned that your laws are fair, I praised you with an honest heart. I will obey your demands, so please don’t ever leave me. How can a young person live a pure life? By obeying your word. With all my heart I try to obey you. Don’t let me break your commands. I have taken your words to heart so I would not sin against you. LORD, you should be praised. Teach me your demands. My lips will tell about all the laws you have spoken. I enjoy living by your rules as people enjoy great riches. I think about your orders and study your ways. I enjoy obeying your demands, and I will not forget your word. Do good to me, your servant, so I can live, so I can obey your word. Open my eyes to see the miracles in your teachings. I am a stranger on earth. Do not hide your commands from me. I wear myself out with desire for your laws all the time. You scold proud people; those who ignore your commands are cursed. Don’t let me be insulted and hated because I keep your rules. Even if princes speak against me, I, your servant, will think about your demands. Your rules give me pleasure; they give me good advice. I am about to die. Give me life, as you have promised. I told you about my life, and you answered me. Teach me your demands. Help me understand your orders. Then I will think about your miracles. I am sad and tired. Make me strong again as you have promised. Don’t let me be dishonest; have mercy on me by helping me obey your teachings. I have chosen the way of truth; I have obeyed your laws. I hold on to your rules. LORD, do not let me be disgraced. I will quickly obey your commands, because you have made me happy. LORD, teach me your demands, and I will keep them until the end. Help me understand, so I can keep your teachings, obeying them with all my heart. Lead me in the path of your commands, because that makes me happy. Make me want to keep your rules instead of wishing for riches. Keep me from looking at worthless things. Let me live by your word. Keep your promise to me, your servant, so you will be respected. Take away the shame I fear, because your laws are good. How I want to follow your orders. Give me life because of your goodness. LORD, show me your love, and save me as you have promised. I have an answer for people who insult me, because I trust what you say. Never keep me from speaking your truth, because I depend on your fair laws. I will obey your teachings forever and ever. So I will live in freedom, because I want to follow your orders. I will discuss your rules with kings and will not be ashamed. I enjoy obeying your commands, which I love. I praise your commands, which I love, and I think about your demands. Remember your promise to me, your servant; it gives me hope. When I suffer, this comforts me: Your promise gives me life. Proud people always make fun of me, but I do not reject your teachings. I remember your laws from long ago, and they comfort me, LORD. I become angry with wicked people who do not keep your teachings. I sing about your demands wherever I live. LORD, I remember you at night, and I will obey your teachings. This is what I do: I follow your orders. LORD, you are my share in life; I have promised to obey your words. I prayed to you with all my heart. Have mercy on me as you have promised. I thought about my life, and I decided to follow your rules. I hurried and did not wait to obey your commands. Wicked people have tied me up, but I have not forgotten your teachings. In the middle of the night, I get up to thank you because your laws are right. I am a friend to everyone who fears you, to anyone who obeys your orders. LORD, your love fills the earth. Teach me your demands. You have done good things for your servant, as you have promised, LORD. Teach me wisdom and knowledge because I trust your commands. Before I suffered, I did wrong, but now I obey your word. You are good, and you do what is good. Teach me your demands. Proud people have made up lies about me, but I will follow your orders with all my heart. Those people have no feelings, but I love your teachings. It was good for me to suffer so I would learn your demands. Your teachings are worth more to me than thousands of pieces of gold and silver. You made me and formed me with your hands. Give me understanding so I can learn your commands. Let those who respect you rejoice when they see me, because I put my hope in your word. LORD, I know that your laws are right and that it was right for you to punish me. Comfort me with your love, as you promised me, your servant. Have mercy on me so that I may live. I love your teachings. Make proud people ashamed because they lied about me. But I will think about your orders. Let those who respect you return to me, those who know your rules. Let me obey your demands perfectly so I will not be ashamed. I am weak from waiting for you to save me, but I hope in your word. My eyes are tired from looking for your promise. When will you comfort me? Even though I am like a wine bag going up in smoke, I do not forget your demands. How long will I live? When will you judge those who are hurting me? Proud people have dug pits to trap me. They have nothing to do with your teachings. All of your commands can be trusted. Liars are hurting me. Help me! They have almost put me in the grave, but I have not rejected your orders. Give me life by your love so I can obey your rules.
Psalms 119:1-88 American Standard Version (ASV)
Blessed are they that are perfect in the way, Who walk in the law of Jehovah. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, That seek him with the whole heart. Yea, they do no unrighteousness; They walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us thy precepts, That we should observe them diligently. Oh that my ways were established To observe thy statutes! Then shall I not be put to shame, When I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will give thanks unto thee with uprightness of heart, When I learn thy righteous judgments. I will observe thy statutes: Oh forsake me not utterly. ב BETH. Wherewith shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: Oh let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I laid up in my heart, That I might not sin against thee. Blessed art thou, O Jehovah: Teach me thy statutes. With my lips have I declared All the ordinances of thy mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, As much as in all riches. I will meditate on thy precepts, And have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word. ג GIMEL. Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live; So will I observe thy word. Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold Wondrous things out of thy law. I am a sojourner in the earth: Hide not thy commandments from me. My soul breaketh for the longing That it hath unto thine ordinances at all times. Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, That do wander from thy commandments. Take away from me reproach and contempt; For I have kept thy testimonies. Princes also sat and talked against me; But thy servant did meditate on thy statutes. Thy testimonies also are my delight And my counsellors. ד DALETH. My soul cleaveth unto the dust: Quicken thou me according to thy word. I declared my ways, and thou answeredst me: Teach me thy statutes. Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: So shall I meditate on thy wondrous works. My soul melteth for heaviness: Strengthen thou me according unto thy word. Remove from me the way of falsehood; And grant me thy law graciously. I have chosen the way of faithfulness: Thine ordinances have I set before me. I cleave unto thy testimonies: O Jehovah, put me not to shame. I will run the way of thy commandments, When thou shalt enlarge my heart. ה HE. Teach me, O Jehovah, the way of thy statutes; And I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; Yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; For therein do I delight. Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, And not to covetousness. Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity, And quicken me in thy ways. Confirm unto thy servant thy word, Which is in order unto the fear of thee. Turn away my reproach whereof I am afraid; For thine ordinances are good. Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: Quicken me in thy righteousness. ו VAV. Let thy lovingkindnesses also come unto me, O Jehovah, Even thy salvation, according to thy word. So shall I have an answer for him that reproacheth me; For I trust in thy word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth; For I have hoped in thine ordinances. So shall I observe thy law continually For ever and ever. And I shall walk at liberty; For I have sought thy precepts. I will also speak of thy testimonies before kings, And shall not be put to shame. And I will delight myself in thy commandments, Which I have loved. I will lift up my hands also unto thy commandments, which I have loved; And I will meditate on thy statutes. ז ZAYIN. Remember the word unto thy servant, Because thou hast made me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction; For thy word hath quickened me. The proud have had me greatly in derision: Yet have I not swerved from thy law. I have remembered thine ordinances of old, O Jehovah, And have comforted myself. Hot indignation hath taken hold upon me, Because of the wicked that forsake thy law. Thy statutes have been my songs In the house of my pilgrimage. I have remembered thy name, O Jehovah, in the night, And have observed thy law. This I have had, Because I have kept thy precepts. ח HHETH. Jehovah is my portion: I have said that I would observe thy words. I entreated thy favor with my whole heart: Be merciful unto me according to thy word. I thought on my ways, And turned my feet unto thy testimonies. I made haste, and delayed not, To observe thy commandments. The cords of the wicked have wrapped me round; But I have not forgotten thy law. At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee Because of thy righteous ordinances. I am a companion of all them that fear thee, And of them that observe thy precepts. The earth, O Jehovah, is full of thy lovingkindness: Teach me thy statutes. ט TETH. Thou hast dealt well with thy servant, O Jehovah, according unto thy word. Teach me good judgment and knowledge; For I have believed in thy commandments. Before I was afflicted I went astray; But now I observe thy word. Thou art good, and doest good; Teach me thy statutes. The proud have forged a lie against me: With my whole heart will I keep thy precepts. Their heart is as fat as grease; But I delight in thy law. It is good for me that I have been afflicted; That I may learn thy statutes. The law of thy mouth is better unto me Than thousands of gold and silver. י YODH. Thy hands have made me and fashioned me: Give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments. They that fear thee shall see me and be glad, Because I have hoped in thy word. I know, O Jehovah, that thy judgments are righteous, And that in faithfulness thou hast afflicted me. Let, I pray thee, thy lovingkindness be for my comfort, According to thy word unto thy servant. Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live; For thy law is my delight. Let the proud be put to shame; for they have overthrown me wrongfully: But I will meditate on thy precepts. Let those that fear thee turn unto me; And they shall know thy testimonies. Let my heart be perfect in thy statutes, That I be not put to shame. כ KAPH. My soul fainteth for thy salvation; But I hope in thy word. Mine eyes fail for thy word, While I say, When wilt thou comfort me? For I am become like a wine-skin in the smoke; Yet do I not forget thy statutes. How many are the days of thy servant? When wilt thou execute judgment on them that persecute me? The proud have digged pits for me, Who are not according to thy law. All thy commandments are faithful: They persecute me wrongfully; help thou me. They had almost consumed me upon earth; But I forsook not thy precepts. Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; So shall I observe the testimony of thy mouth. ל LAMEDH.
Psalms 119:1-88 New International Version (NIV)
Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the LORD. Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart— they do no wrong but follow his ways. You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed. Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees! Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands. I will praise you with an upright heart as I learn your righteous laws. I will obey your decrees; do not utterly forsake me. How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Praise be to you, LORD; teach me your decrees. With my lips I recount all the laws that come from your mouth. I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word. Be good to your servant while I live, that I may obey your word. Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law. I am a stranger on earth; do not hide your commands from me. My soul is consumed with longing for your laws at all times. You rebuke the arrogant, who are accursed, those who stray from your commands. Remove from me their scorn and contempt, for I keep your statutes. Though rulers sit together and slander me, your servant will meditate on your decrees. Your statutes are my delight; they are my counselors. I am laid low in the dust; preserve my life according to your word. I gave an account of my ways and you answered me; teach me your decrees. Cause me to understand the way of your precepts, that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds. My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word. Keep me from deceitful ways; be gracious to me and teach me your law. I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I have set my heart on your laws. I hold fast to your statutes, LORD; do not let me be put to shame. I run in the path of your commands, for you have broadened my understanding. Teach me, LORD, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end. Give me understanding, so that I may keep your law and obey it with all my heart. Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight. Turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. Fulfill your promise to your servant, so that you may be feared. Take away the disgrace I dread, for your laws are good. How I long for your precepts! In your righteousness preserve my life. May your unfailing love come to me, LORD, your salvation, according to your promise; then I can answer anyone who taunts me, for I trust in your word. Never take your word of truth from my mouth, for I have put my hope in your laws. I will always obey your law, for ever and ever. I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts. I will speak of your statutes before kings and will not be put to shame, for I delight in your commands because I love them. I reach out for your commands, which I love, that I may meditate on your decrees. Remember your word to your servant, for you have given me hope. My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life. The arrogant mock me unmercifully, but I do not turn from your law. I remember, LORD, your ancient laws, and I find comfort in them. Indignation grips me because of the wicked, who have forsaken your law. Your decrees are the theme of my song wherever I lodge. In the night, LORD, I remember your name, that I may keep your law. This has been my practice: I obey your precepts. You are my portion, LORD; I have promised to obey your words. I have sought your face with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise. I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes. I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands. Though the wicked bind me with ropes, I will not forget your law. At midnight I rise to give you thanks for your righteous laws. I am a friend to all who fear you, to all who follow your precepts. The earth is filled with your love, LORD; teach me your decrees. Do good to your servant according to your word, LORD. Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I trust your commands. Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word. You are good, and what you do is good; teach me your decrees. Though the arrogant have smeared me with lies, I keep your precepts with all my heart. Their hearts are callous and unfeeling, but I delight in your law. 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. Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding to learn your commands. May those who fear you rejoice when they see me, for I have put my hope in your word. I know, LORD, that your laws are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant. Let your compassion come to me that I may live, for your law is my delight. May the arrogant be put to shame for wronging me without cause; but I will meditate on your precepts. May those who fear you turn to me, those who understand your statutes. May I wholeheartedly follow your decrees, that I may not be put to shame. My soul faints with longing for your salvation, but I have put my hope in your word. My eyes fail, looking for your promise; I say, “When will you comfort me?” Though I am like a wineskin in the smoke, I do not forget your decrees. How long must your servant wait? When will you punish my persecutors? The arrogant dig pits to trap me, contrary to your law. All your commands are trustworthy; help me, for I am being persecuted without cause. They almost wiped me from the earth, but I have not forsaken your precepts. In your unfailing love preserve my life, that I may obey the statutes of your mouth.
Psalms 119:1-88 New King James Version (NKJV)
Blessed are the undefiled in the way, Who walk in the law of the LORD! Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, Who seek Him with the whole heart! They also do no iniquity; They walk in His ways. You have commanded us To keep Your precepts diligently. Oh, that my ways were directed To keep Your statutes! Then I would not be ashamed, When I look into all Your commandments. I will praise You with uprightness of heart, When I learn Your righteous judgments. I will keep Your statutes; Oh, do not forsake me utterly! BETH How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word. With my whole heart I have sought You; Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments! Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You. Blessed are You, O LORD! Teach me Your statutes. With my lips I have declared All the judgments of Your mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, As much as in all riches. I will meditate on Your precepts, And contemplate Your ways. I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word. GIMEL Deal bountifully with Your servant, That I may live and keep Your word. Open my eyes, that I may see Wondrous things from Your law. I am a stranger in the earth; Do not hide Your commandments from me. My soul breaks with longing For Your judgments at all times. You rebuke the proud—the cursed, Who stray from Your commandments. Remove from me reproach and contempt, For I have kept Your testimonies. Princes also sit and speak against me, But Your servant meditates on Your statutes. Your testimonies also are my delight And my counselors. DALETH My soul clings to the dust; Revive me according to Your word. I have declared my ways, and You answered me; Teach me Your statutes. Make me understand the way of Your precepts; So shall I meditate on Your wonderful works. My soul melts from heaviness; Strengthen me according to Your word. Remove from me the way of lying, And grant me Your law graciously. I have chosen the way of truth; Your judgments I have laid before me. I cling to Your testimonies; O LORD, do not put me to shame! I will run the course of Your commandments, For You shall enlarge my heart. HE Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes, And I shall keep it to the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep Your law; Indeed, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, For I delight in it. Incline my heart to Your testimonies, And not to covetousness. Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, And revive me in Your way. Establish Your word to Your servant, Who is devoted to fearing You. Turn away my reproach which I dread, For Your judgments are good. Behold, I long for Your precepts; Revive me in Your righteousness. WAW Let Your mercies come also to me, O LORD— Your salvation according to Your word. So shall I have an answer for him who reproaches me, For I trust in Your word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, For I have hoped in Your ordinances. So shall I keep Your law continually, Forever and ever. And I will walk at liberty, For I seek Your precepts. I will speak of Your testimonies also before kings, And will not be ashamed. And I will delight myself in Your commandments, Which I love. My hands also I will lift up to Your commandments, Which I love, And I will meditate on Your statutes. ZAYIN Remember the word to Your servant, Upon which You have caused me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, For Your word has given me life. The proud have me in great derision, Yet I do not turn aside from Your law. I remembered Your judgments of old, O LORD, And have comforted myself. Indignation has taken hold of me Because of the wicked, who forsake Your law. Your statutes have been my songs In the house of my pilgrimage. I remember Your name in the night, O LORD, And I keep Your law. This has become mine, Because I kept Your precepts. HETH You are my portion, O LORD; I have said that I would keep Your words. I entreated Your favor with my whole heart; Be merciful to me according to Your word. I thought about my ways, And turned my feet to Your testimonies. I made haste, and did not delay To keep Your commandments. The cords of the wicked have bound me, But I have not forgotten Your law. At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You, Because of Your righteous judgments. I am a companion of all who fear You, And of those who keep Your precepts. The earth, O LORD, is full of Your mercy; Teach me Your statutes. TETH You have dealt well with Your servant, O LORD, according to Your word. Teach me good judgment and knowledge, For I believe Your commandments. Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep Your word. You are good, and do good; Teach me Your statutes. The proud have forged a lie against me, But I will keep Your precepts with my whole heart. Their heart is as fat as grease, But I delight in Your law. It is good for me that I have been afflicted, That I may learn Your statutes. The law of Your mouth is better to me Than thousands of coins of gold and silver. YOD Your hands have made me and fashioned me; Give me understanding, that I may learn Your commandments. Those who fear You will be glad when they see me, Because I have hoped in Your word. I know, O LORD, that Your judgments are right, And that in faithfulness You have afflicted me. Let, I pray, Your merciful kindness be for my comfort, According to Your word to Your servant. Let Your tender mercies come to me, that I may live; For Your law is my delight. Let the proud be ashamed, For they treated me wrongfully with falsehood; But I will meditate on Your precepts. Let those who fear You turn to me, Those who know Your testimonies. Let my heart be blameless regarding Your statutes, That I may not be ashamed. KAPH My soul faints for Your salvation, But I hope in Your word. My eyes fail from searching Your word, Saying, “When will You comfort me?” For I have become like a wineskin in smoke, Yet I do not forget Your statutes. How many are the days of Your servant? When will You execute judgment on those who persecute me? The proud have dug pits for me, Which is not according to Your law. All Your commandments are faithful; They persecute me wrongfully; Help me! They almost made an end of me on earth, But I did not forsake Your precepts. Revive me according to Your lovingkindness, So that I may keep the testimony of Your mouth.
Psalms 119:1-88 Amplified Bible (AMP)
How blessed and favored by God are those whose way is blameless [those with personal integrity, the upright, the guileless], Who walk in the law [and who are guided by the precepts and revealed will] of the LORD. Blessed and favored by God are those who keep His testimonies, And who [consistently] seek Him and long for Him with all their heart. They do no unrighteousness; They walk in His ways. [1 John 3:9; 5:18] You have ordained Your precepts, That we should follow them with [careful] diligence. Oh, that my ways may be established To observe and keep Your statutes [obediently accepting and honoring them]! Then I will not be ashamed When I look [with respect] to all Your commandments [as my guide]. I will give thanks to You with an upright heart, When I learn [through discipline] Your righteous judgments [for my transgressions]. I shall keep Your statutes; Do not utterly abandon me [when I fail]. ¶How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping watch [on himself] according to Your word [conforming his life to Your precepts]. With all my heart I have sought You, [inquiring of You and longing for You]; Do not let me wander from Your commandments [neither through ignorance nor by willful disobedience]. [2 Chr 15:15] Your word I have treasured and stored in my heart, That I may not sin against You. Blessed and reverently praised are You, O LORD; Teach me Your statutes. With my lips I have told of All the ordinances of Your mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, As much as in all riches. I will meditate on Your precepts And [thoughtfully] regard Your ways [the path of life established by Your precepts]. [Ps 104:34] I will delight in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word. ¶Deal bountifully with Your servant, That I may live and keep Your word [treasuring it and being guided by it day by day]. [Ps 119:97-101] Open my eyes [to spiritual truth] so that I may behold Wonderful things from Your law. I am a stranger on the earth; Do not hide Your commandments from me. [Gen 47:9; 1 Chr 29:15; Ps 39:12; 2 Cor 5:6; Heb 11:13] My soul is crushed with longing For Your ordinances at all times. You rebuke the presumptuous and arrogant, the cursed ones, Who wander from Your commandments. Take reproach and contempt away from me, For I observe Your testimonies. Even though princes sit and talk to one another against me, Your servant meditates on Your statutes. Your testimonies also are my delight And my counselors. ¶My earthly life clings to the dust; Revive and refresh me according to Your word. [Ps 143:11] I have told of my ways, and You have answered me; Teach me Your statutes. Make me understand the way of Your precepts, So that I will meditate (focus my thoughts) on Your wonderful works. [Ps 145:5, 6] My soul dissolves because of grief; Renew and strengthen me according to [the promises of] Your word. Remove from me the way of falsehood and unfaithfulness, And graciously grant me Your law. I have chosen the faithful way; I have placed Your ordinances before me. I cling tightly to Your testimonies; O LORD, do not put me to shame! I will run the way of Your commandments [with purpose], For You will give me a heart that is willing. ¶Teach me, O LORD, the way of Your statutes, And I will [steadfastly] observe it to the end. Give me understanding [a teachable heart and the ability to learn], that I may keep Your law; And observe it with all my heart. [Prov 2:6; James 1:5] Make me walk in the path of Your commandments, For I delight in it. Incline my heart to Your testimonies And not to dishonest gain and envy. [Ezek 33:31; Mark 7:21, 22; 1 Tim 6:10; Heb 13:5] Turn my eyes away from vanity [all those worldly, meaningless things that distract—let Your priorities be mine], And restore me [with renewed energy] in Your ways. Establish Your word and confirm Your promise to Your servant, As that which produces [awe-inspired] reverence for You. [Deut 10:12; Ps 96:9] Turn away my reproach which I dread, For Your ordinances are good. I long for Your precepts; Renew me through Your righteousness. ¶May Your lovingkindness also come to me, O LORD, Your salvation according to Your promise; So I will have an answer for the one who taunts me, For I trust [completely] in Your word [and its reliability]. And do not take the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, For I wait for Your ordinances. I will keep Your law continually, Forever and ever [writing Your precepts on my heart]. And I will walk at liberty, For I seek and deeply long for Your precepts. I will also speak of Your testimonies before kings And shall not be ashamed. [Ps 138:1; Matt 10:18, 19; Acts 26:1, 2] For I shall delight in Your commandments, Which I love. And I shall lift up my hands to Your commandments, Which I love; And I will meditate on Your statutes. ¶Remember [always] the word and promise to Your servant, In which You have made me hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, That Your word has revived me and given me life. [Rom 15:4] The arrogant utterly ridicule me, Yet I do not turn away from Your law. I have remembered [carefully] Your ancient ordinances, O LORD, And I have taken comfort. Burning indignation has seized me because of the wicked, Who reject Your law. Your statutes are my songs In the house of my pilgrimage. O LORD, I remember Your name in the night, And keep Your law. This has become mine [as the gift of Your grace], That I observe Your precepts [accepting them with loving obedience]. ¶The LORD is my portion; I have promised to keep Your words. I sought Your favor with all my heart; Be merciful and gracious to me according to Your promise. I considered my ways And turned my feet to [follow and obey] Your testimonies. I hurried and did not delay To keep Your commandments. The cords of the wicked have encircled and ensnared me, But I have not forgotten Your law. At midnight I will rise to give thanks to You Because of Your righteous ordinances. I am a companion of all who [reverently] fear You, And of those who keep and honor Your precepts. The earth, O LORD, is full of Your lovingkindness and goodness; Teach me Your statutes. ¶You have dealt well with Your servant, O LORD, according to Your promise. Teach me good judgment (discernment) and knowledge, For I have believed and trusted and relied on Your commandments. Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep and honor Your word [with loving obedience]. You are good and do good; Teach me Your statutes. The arrogant have forged a lie against me, But I will keep Your precepts with all my heart. Their heart is insensitive like fat [their minds are dull and brutal], But I delight in Your law. It is good for me that I have been afflicted, That I may learn Your statutes. The law from Your mouth is better to me Than thousands of gold and silver pieces. ¶Your hands have made me and established me; Give me understanding and a teachable heart, that I may learn Your commandments. May those who [reverently] fear You see me and be glad, Because I wait for Your word. I know, O LORD, that Your judgments are fair, And that in faithfulness You have disciplined me. [Heb 12:10] O may Your lovingkindness and graciousness comfort me, According to Your word (promise) to Your servant. Let Your compassion come to me that I may live, For Your law is my delight. Let the arrogant be ashamed and humiliated, for they sabotage me with a lie; But I will meditate on Your precepts. May those who fear You [with submissive wonder] turn to me, Even those who have known Your testimonies. May my heart be blameless in Your statutes, So that I will not be ashamed. ¶My soul languishes and grows weak for Your salvation; I wait for Your word. My eyes fail [with longing, watching] for [the fulfillment of] Your promise, Saying, “When will You comfort me?” For I have become like a wineskin [blackened and shriveled] in the smoke [in which it hangs], Yet I do not forget Your statutes. How many are the days of Your servant [which he must endure]? When will You execute judgment on those who persecute me? [Rev 6:10] The arrogant (godless) have dug pits for me, Men who do not conform to Your law. All Your commandments are faithful and trustworthy. They have persecuted me with a lie; help me [LORD]! They had almost destroyed me on earth, But as for me, I did not turn away from Your precepts. According to Your steadfast love refresh me and give me life, So that I may keep and obey the testimony of Your mouth.
Psalms 119:1-88 New Living Translation (NLT)
Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the LORD. Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths. You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands. As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should! I will obey your decrees. Please don’t give up on me! How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. I have tried hard to find you— don’t let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O LORD; teach me your decrees. I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us. I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word. Be good to your servant, that I may live and obey your word. Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instructions. I am only a foreigner in the land. Don’t hide your commands from me! I am always overwhelmed with a desire for your regulations. You rebuke the arrogant; those who wander from your commands are cursed. Don’t let them scorn and insult me, for I have obeyed your laws. Even princes sit and speak against me, but I will meditate on your decrees. Your laws please me; they give me wise advice. I lie in the dust; revive me by your word. I told you my plans, and you answered. Now teach me your decrees. Help me understand the meaning of your commandments, and I will meditate on your wonderful deeds. I weep with sorrow; encourage me by your word. Keep me from lying to myself; give me the privilege of knowing your instructions. I have chosen to be faithful; I have determined to live by your regulations. I cling to your laws. LORD, don’t let me be put to shame! I will pursue your commands, for you expand my understanding. Teach me your decrees, O LORD; I will keep them to the end. Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions; I will put them into practice with all my heart. Make me walk along the path of your commands, for that is where my happiness is found. Give me an eagerness for your laws rather than a love for money! Turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through your word. Reassure me of your promise, made to those who fear you. Help me abandon my shameful ways; for your regulations are good. I long to obey your commandments! Renew my life with your goodness. LORD, give me your unfailing love, the salvation that you promised me. Then I can answer those who taunt me, for I trust in your word. Do not snatch your word of truth from me, for your regulations are my only hope. I will keep on obeying your instructions forever and ever. I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments. I will speak to kings about your laws, and I will not be ashamed. How I delight in your commands! How I love them! I honor and love your commands. I meditate on your decrees. Remember your promise to me; it is my only hope. Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles. The proud hold me in utter contempt, but I do not turn away from your instructions. I meditate on your age-old regulations; O LORD, they comfort me. I become furious with the wicked, because they reject your instructions. Your decrees have been the theme of my songs wherever I have lived. I reflect at night on who you are, O LORD; therefore, I obey your instructions. This is how I spend my life: obeying your commandments. LORD, you are mine! I promise to obey your words! With all my heart I want your blessings. Be merciful as you promised. I pondered the direction of my life, and I turned to follow your laws. I will hurry, without delay, to obey your commands. Evil people try to drag me into sin, but I am firmly anchored to your instructions. I rise at midnight to thank you for your just regulations. I am a friend to anyone who fears you— anyone who obeys your commandments. O LORD, your unfailing love fills the earth; teach me your decrees. You have done many good things for me, LORD, just as you promised. I believe in your commands; now teach me good judgment and knowledge. I used to wander off until you disciplined me; but now I closely follow your word. You are good and do only good; teach me your decrees. Arrogant people smear me with lies, but in truth I obey your commandments with all my heart. Their hearts are dull and stupid, but I delight in your instructions. My suffering was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to your decrees. Your instructions are more valuable to me than millions in gold and silver. You made me; you created me. Now give me the sense to follow your commands. May all who fear you find in me a cause for joy, for I have put my hope in your word. I know, O LORD, that your regulations are fair; you disciplined me because I needed it. Now let your unfailing love comfort me, just as you promised me, your servant. Surround me with your tender mercies so I may live, for your instructions are my delight. Bring disgrace upon the arrogant people who lied about me; meanwhile, I will concentrate on your commandments. Let me be united with all who fear you, with those who know your laws. May I be blameless in keeping your decrees; then I will never be ashamed. I am worn out waiting for your rescue, but I have put my hope in your word. My eyes are straining to see your promises come true. When will you comfort me? I am shriveled like a wineskin in the smoke, but I have not forgotten to obey your decrees. How long must I wait? When will you punish those who persecute me? These arrogant people who hate your instructions have dug deep pits to trap me. All your commands are trustworthy. Protect me from those who hunt me down without cause. They almost finished me off, but I refused to abandon your commandments. In your unfailing love, spare my life; then I can continue to obey your laws.
Psalms 119:1-88 The Passion Translation (TPT)
You’re only truly happy when you walk in total integrity, walking in the light of God’s Word. What joy overwhelms everyone who keeps the ways of God, those who seek him as their heart’s passion! They’ll never do what’s wrong but will always choose the paths of the Lord. God has prescribed the right way to live: obeying his laws with all our hearts. How I long for my life to bring you glory as I follow each and every one of your holy precepts! Then I’ll never be ashamed, for I take strength from all your commandments. I will give my thanks to you from a heart of love and truth. And every time I learn more of your righteous judgments, I will be faithful to all that your Word reveals— so don’t ever give up on me! How can a young man stay pure? Only by living in the Word of God and walking in its truth. I have longed for you with the passion of my heart; don’t let me stray from your directions! I consider your Word to be my greatest treasure, and I treasure it in my heart to keep me from committing sin’s treason against you. My wonderful God, you are to be praised above all; teach me the power of your decrees! I speak continually of your laws as I recite out loud your counsel to me. I find more joy in following what you tell me to do than in chasing after all the wealth of the world. I set my heart on your precepts and pay close attention to all your ways. My delight is found in all your laws, and I won’t forget to walk in your words. Let me, your servant, walk in abundance of life that I may always live to obey your truth. Open my eyes to see the miracle-wonders hidden in Scripture. My life on earth is so brief, so tutor me in the ways of your wisdom. I am continually consumed by these irresistible longings, these cravings to obey your every commandment! Your displeasure rests with those who are arrogant, who think they know everything; you rebuke the rebellious who refuse your laws. Don’t let them mock and scorn me for obeying you. For even if the princes and my leaders choose to criticize me, I will continue to serve you and walk in your plans for my life. Your commandments are my counselors; your Word is my light and delight! Lord, I’m fading away. I’m discouraged and lying in the dust; revive me by your word, just like you promised you would. I’ve poured out my life before you, and you’ve always been there for me. So now I ask: teach me more of your holy decrees. Open up my understanding to the ways of your wisdom, and I will meditate deeply on your splendor and your wonders. My life’s strength melts away with grief and sadness; come strengthen me and encourage me with your words. Keep me far away from what is false; give me grace to stay true to your laws. I’ve chosen to obey your truth and walk in the splendor-light of all that you teach me. Lord, don’t allow me to make a mess of my life, for I cling to your commands and follow them as closely as I can. I will run after you with delight in my heart, for you will make me obedient to your instructions. Give me revelation about the meaning of your ways so I can enjoy the reward of following them fully. Give me an understanding heart so that I can passionately know and obey your truth. Guide me into the paths that please you, for I take delight in all that you say. Cause my heart to bow before your words of wisdom and not to the wealth of this world. Help me turn my eyes away from illusions so that I pursue only that which is true; drench my soul with life as I walk in your paths. Reassure me of your promises, for I am your beloved, your servant who bows before you. Defend me from the criticism I face for keeping your beautiful words. See how I long with cravings for more of your ways? Let your righteousness revive my spirit! May your tender love overwhelm me, O Lord, for you are my Savior and you keep your promises. I’ll always have an answer for those who mock me because I trust in your word. May I never forget your truth, for I rely upon your precepts. I will observe your laws every moment of the day and will never forget the words you say. I will walk with you in complete freedom, for I seek to follow your every command. When I stand before kings, I will tell them the truth and will never be ashamed. My passion and delight is in your word, for I love what you say to me! I long for more revelation of your truth, for I love the light of your word as I meditate on your decrees. Lord, never forget the promises you’ve made to me, for they are my hope and confidence. In all of my affliction I find great comfort in your promises, for they have kept me alive! No matter how bitterly the proud mockers speak against me, I refuse to budge from your precepts. Your revelation-light is eternal; I’m encouraged every time I think about your truth! Whenever I see the wicked breaking your laws, I feel horrible. As I journey through life, I put all your statutes to music; they become the theme of my joyous songs. Throughout the night I think of you, dear God; I treasure your every word to me. All this joy is mine as I follow your ways! You are my satisfaction, Lord, and all that I need, so I’m determined to do everything you say. With all my heart I seek your favor; pour out your grace on me as you promised! When I realize that I’m going astray, I turn back to obey your instructions. I give my all to follow your revelation-light; I will not delay to obey. Even when temptations encircle me with evil, I won’t forget for a moment to follow your commands. In the middle of the night I awake to give thanks to you because of all your revelation-light—so right and true! Anyone who loves you and bows in obedience to your words will be my friend. Give me more revelation of your ways, for I see your love and tender care everywhere. Your extravagant kindness to me makes me want to follow your words even more! Teach me how to make good decisions, and give me revelation-light, for I believe in your commands. Before I was humbled I used to always wander astray, but now I see the wisdom of your words. Everything you do is beautiful, flowing from your goodness; teach me the power of your wonderful words! Proud boasters make up lies about me because I am passionate to follow all that you say. Their hearts are dull and void of feelings, but I find my true treasure in your truth. The punishment you brought me through was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me your ways. The words you speak to me are worth more than all the riches and wealth in the whole world! Your very hands have held me and made me who I am; give me more revelation-light so I may learn to please you more. May all your devoted lovers see how you treat me and be glad, for your words are entwined with my heart. Lord, I know that your judgments are always right. Even when it’s me you judge, you’re still faithful and true. Send your kind mercy-kiss to comfort me, your servant, just like you promised you would. Love me tenderly so I can go on, for I delight in your life-giving truth. Shame upon the proud liars! See how they oppress me, all because of my passion for your precepts! May all your devoted lovers follow me as I follow the path of your instruction. Make me passionate and wholehearted to fulfill your every wish, so that I’ll never have to be ashamed of myself. I’m lovesick with yearnings for more of your salvation, for my heart is entwined with your Word. I’m consumed with longings for your promises, so I ask, “When will they all come true?” My soul feels dry and shriveled, useless and forgotten, but I will never forget your living truth. How much longer must I wait until you punish my persecutors? For I am your loving servant. Arrogant men who hate your truth and never obey your laws have laid a trap for my life. They don’t know that everything you say is true, so they harass me with their lies. Help me, Lord! They’ve nearly destroyed my life, but I refuse to yield; I still live according to your Word. Revive me with your tender love and spare my life by your kindness, and I will continue to obey you.
Psalms 119:1-88 English Standard Version 2016 (ESV)
Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. Oh that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments. I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous rules. I will keep your statutes; do not utterly forsake me! How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Blessed are you, O LORD; teach me your statutes! With my lips I declare all the rules of your mouth. In the way of your testimonies I delight as much as in all riches. I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word. Deal bountifully with your servant, that I may live and keep your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law. I am a sojourner on the earth; hide not your commandments from me! My soul is consumed with longing for your rules at all times. You rebuke the insolent, accursed ones, who wander from your commandments. Take away from me scorn and contempt, for I have kept your testimonies. Even though princes sit plotting against me, your servant will meditate on your statutes. Your testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors. My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word! When I told of my ways, you answered me; teach me your statutes! Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous works. My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word! Put false ways far from me and graciously teach me your law! I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set your rules before me. I cling to your testimonies, O LORD; let me not be put to shame! I will run in the way of your commandments when you enlarge my heart! Teach me, O LORD, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end. Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart. Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it. Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain! Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways. Confirm to your servant your promise, that you may be feared. Turn away the reproach that I dread, for your rules are good. Behold, I long for your precepts; in your righteousness give me life! Let your steadfast love come to me, O LORD, your salvation according to your promise; then shall I have an answer for him who taunts me, for I trust in your word. And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth, for my hope is in your rules. I will keep your law continually, forever and ever, and I shall walk in a wide place, for I have sought your precepts. I will also speak of your testimonies before kings and shall not be put to shame, for I find my delight in your commandments, which I love. I will lift up my hands toward your commandments, which I love, and I will meditate on your statutes. Remember your word to your servant, in which you have made me hope. This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life. The insolent utterly deride me, but I do not turn away from your law. When I think of your rules from of old, I take comfort, O LORD. Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked, who forsake your law. Your statutes have been my songs in the house of my sojourning. I remember your name in the night, O LORD, and keep your law. This blessing has fallen to me, that I have kept your precepts. The LORD is my portion; I promise to keep your words. I entreat your favor with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise. When I think on my ways, I turn my feet to your testimonies; I hasten and do not delay to keep your commandments. Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me, I do not forget your law. At midnight I rise to praise you, because of your righteous rules. I am a companion of all who fear you, of those who keep your precepts. The earth, O LORD, is full of your steadfast love; teach me your statutes! You have dealt well with your servant, O LORD, according to your word. Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe in your commandments. Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word. You are good and do good; teach me your statutes. The insolent smear me with lies, but with my whole heart I keep your precepts; their heart is unfeeling like fat, but I delight in your law. It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes. The law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces. Your hands have made and fashioned me; give me understanding that I may learn your commandments. Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice, because I have hoped in your word. I know, O LORD, that your rules are righteous, and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me. Let your steadfast love comfort me according to your promise to your servant. Let your mercy come to me, that I may live; for your law is my delight. Let the insolent be put to shame, because they have wronged me with falsehood; as for me, I will meditate on your precepts. Let those who fear you turn to me, that they may know your testimonies. May my heart be blameless in your statutes, that I may not be put to shame! My soul longs for your salvation; I hope in your word. My eyes long for your promise; I ask, “When will you comfort me?” For I have become like a wineskin in the smoke, yet I have not forgotten your statutes. How long must your servant endure? When will you judge those who persecute me? The insolent have dug pitfalls for me; they do not live according to your law. All your commandments are sure; they persecute me with falsehood; help me! They have almost made an end of me on earth, but I have not forsaken your precepts. In your steadfast love give me life, that I may keep the testimonies of your mouth.