Today’s passage contains 8 verses from a mere 176 verses…YES, you read that correctly, Psalm 119 is the longest Psalm, and chapter, in the Bible with 176 verses. It’s an acrostic poem using the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet. Psalm 119 is divided into 22 sections, with 8 verses in each section. Another amazing fact is that this Psalm focuses entirely on the importance and value of the Word of God. Almost every verse contains various synonyms that are often used throughout scripture for the Word.
In these 8 verses I can relate to the palmist as in my own life I find myself clinging to my salvation in Christ and to His every Word. I always need Jesus, but it is especially clear to me that I need Him to deliver me from the trials and evil of this world. Only Jesus can spare my life as I obey His greatest commandment to love the Lord with all of my heart, soul, and mind; and the second to love my neighbor as myself (Matthew 22:37-39).
Psalm 119:81-88 (TPT)
Deliver Me
81 I’m lovesick with yearnings for more of your salvation,
for my heart is entwined with your Word.
82 I’m consumed with longings for your promises,
so I ask, “When will they all come true?”
83 My soul feels dry and shriveled, useless and forgotten,
but I will never forget your living truth.
84 How much longer must I wait until you punish my persecutors?
For I am your loving servant.
85 Arrogant men who hate your truth and never obey your laws
have laid a trap for my life.
86 They don’t know that everything you say is true,
so they harass me with their lies. Help me, Lord!
87 They’ve nearly destroyed my life, but I refuse to yield;
I still live according to your Word.
88 Revive me with your tender love and
spare my life by your kindness, and I will continue to obey you.
Prayer: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
Written By: Jen Auer, Pastor Mary Haley’s Assistant