Seventh-day Adventist Bible CommentaryPsalms 119

Blessed. Heb. ’ashre (see on Ps. 1:1). The psalm begins by pronouncing a blessing upon those who are obedient to the law of the Lord. Undefiled. Heb. temimim, “complete,” “blameless,” translated “perfect” in Gen. 6:9, but better rendered “blameless.” Who walk. A holy life is described as walking in the law. Law. Heb. torah, “teaching” or “instruction” (see on Deut. 31:9; Ps. 19:7; Prov. 3:1).

Ellen G. White

Testimonies. See on Ps. 19:7.

Whole heart. There must not be a divided heart in the Lord’s service (see Deut. 6:5; Matt. 6:24; 12:30; Luke 16:13).

Do no iniquity. That is, their whole purpose is to be in harmony with God’s will.

Precepts. Heb. piqqudim, “orders,” “precepts,” denoting specific injunctions pointing out our duty to God (see on Ps. 19:8). God’s precepts require careful obedience and cannot be broken without disastrous results, whether it be to men or to nations.

Statutes. Heb. chuqqim, “prescribed matters,” “statutes,” from chaqaq, “to engrave” or “to inscribe.”

Commandments. Heb. miṣwoth, “orders,” “commands” (see on Ps. 19:8).

Learned. The psalmist represents himself as a student in the school of the law. Judgments. Heb. mishpaṭim, “decisions,” or “judgments” (see on Ps. 19:9). Mishpaṭim may also be used in the sense of “the judicial acts of God.”

Forsake me not. When men or nations persist in forsaking the law, God can do no other than to leave them to their choice (see Hosea 4:17). He never forsakes those who do not forsake His law.

Thy word. Victory in temptation comes to those who effectively employ the “sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” (Eph. 6:17). “It is written” was the way the Master met Satan’s subtle allurements (see Matt. 4:4, 7, 10). The youth of today must employ the same spiritual weapons. The mind must constantly feed upon the Word, else the defenses of soul will break down, and Satan will gain the advantage. A neglect to study and to meditate upon the Word for even one day results in serious loss.

O let me not wander. While we must exert all the powers of the soul in the conflict against sin, we still need the Lord’s help. Sin can be resisted and overcome only through the mighty agency of the third person of the Godhead (see DA 671), but God can do nothing for us without our consent and cooperation (see DA 668). We are so prone to wander. Like the sheep on the mountainside, how often we go astray (see Isa. 53:6).

Have I hid. This verse contains the secret of true Christian living. A mere knowledge of the Word will not keep us from sin, but when the Word is treasured up in the heart we have the weapons with which to meet and conquer the wily foe (see Job 23:12; Prov. 2:1, 9; Jer. 31:33).

Blessed art thou. See on Ps. 63:4. Teach me. We all need to be learners in God’s school. What a privilege to ask for, and what a privilege to receive, a divine Instructor (see John 14:26; 16:13)!

Have I declared. Every faithful disciple will tell others of his great joy in the Word of God and will invite them to share in this blessed experience (see Deut. 6:7; cf. Matt. 12:35).

In all riches. The believer in the Word finds more satisfaction in its treasures than does the man of wealth in earthly riches. The Word of God is much more to be desired than gold or precious stones. Earthly treasures fade, but the treasures of heaven endure unto all eternity (see Matt. 6:19–21).

I will meditate. When the soul meditates on the truths of the Word of God, these truths become a part of the life. A hasty reading without reflection accomplishes but little good. Quiet meditation permits the Holy Spirit to make appropriate application of the general statements of principle to individual experience. “One reason that there is not

more sincere piety and religious fervor, is because the mind is occupied with unimportant things and there is no time to meditate, search the Scriptures or pray” (CW 125). Meditation helps to guard against temptation. The mind that is filled with the precepts of God has no room for cheap and debasing thoughts. The young man who has his mind thus stored will tread a pure path.

I will delight myself. Delight naturally follows meditation, being the outcome or fruit of it. The law ceases to be a burden and becomes the source of greatest joy and delight. Those who live in harmony with heaven thrill with pleasure as the sacred pages of the Word of God are read. True religion does not inhibit man’s powers, it gives them their greatest scope.

Deal bountifully. Compare Ps. 13:3, 6. Life and obedience are closely connected (see Luke 10:28).

Ellen G. White

Open. Heb. galah, “to uncover,” “to reveal.” The psalmist prays that whatever is covering his eyes may be removed. We cannot penetrate the deep things of God with our natural perceptive powers. “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God ” (1 Cor. 2:14). We need to pray that the Lord will take the dimness away from our soul, and that He will grant to us the Holy Spirit, who alone can reveal the things of God to us (1 Cor. 2:10).

Ellen G. White

Stranger. Heb. ger, “sojourner,” one who stays temporarily at a place without full civic rights. Our stay here on earth is only temporary; heaven is our home (see Heb. 11:13, 14). Hide not thy commandments. Being in an alien land, the psalmist needs a chart to guide him. This he finds in God’s commandments.

My soul breaketh. David was overwhelmed with a longing desire for a better understanding of God’s judgments. God delights to satisfy such yearnings (see Matt. 5:6).

Rebuked the proud. The proud are self-sufficient and refuse to walk the way of God’s commandments. The humble know that “the way of man is not in himself” (Jer. 10:23). They recognize their need of God’s help to keep their feet from straying.

Princes. See on v. 161.

Counsellors. Instead of following the counsel of the “princes” (v. 23), who were criticizing his conduct, the psalmist chose to guide his life by the criterion of God’s revealed will.

Cleaveth unto the dust. A figure denoting deep distress (see Ps. 22:29; 44:25). Quicken. Or, “revive.”

Declared my ways. The psalmist had opened the secrets of his life to God.

To understand. David longed for a deeper insight into God’s precepts. He did not wish to obey them blindly. He desired an intelligent grasp of their far-reaching claims.

Melteth. Heb. dalaph, a word occurring only three times. In Eccl. 10:18 it is used of a roof dripping water, and in Job 16:20 presumably of weeping, as possibly here also. The LXX and the Vulgate read “sleepeth.” It is better to be melted with sorrow than to be hardened by stubbornness. The Lord delights to bind up the wounds of the soul that is torn. Prayer is a wonderful blessing in such times of sorrow.

Way of lying. The true-born child of God turns away from all falsehood and speaks “the truth in his heart” (see Ps. 15:2).

Chosen. The psalmist chose the way of faithfulness and truth rather than the “way of lying” (v. 29). There are only two ways—the way of life and the way of death—and each one must make his own choice. Upon that choice depends eternal destiny.

Stuck. Heb. dabaq, “to cleave,” “to cling to.” David’s choice was not a fickle one; he had a firm determination to remain steadfast.

Enlarge my heart. Perhaps in the sense of removing the restrictions of anxieties and oppressing fears. Those who are cumbered with anxiety and doubt are not able to enjoy the full blessings of heaven.

Teach. Heb. yarah, “to teach,” “direct,” or “instruct.” The noun torah (law) is derived from this verb (see on v. 1). There is no teacher like God (see Job 36:22). Keep it. A pledge of constancy in religious experience (see Matt. 24:13; Phil. 1:6).

Give me understanding. See on Prov. 1:1, 20. With my whole heart. See on v. 2.

I delight. See on Ps. 40:8.

Covetousness. Heb. beṣa’, “profit,” “gain,” translated “gain” in Prov. 1:19; Judges 5:19; Job 22:3; etc. To obey the commandments of God will ensure against falling a prey to an inordinate desire for gain (see Col. 3:5).

Beholding vanity. If the eyes do not behold, the heart is less likely to covet.

Stablish thy word. That is, make Thy word sure to me, and make me sure of it. The more men study the Word of God, the more likely are they to be certain of its verity and stability (see on Ps. 19:9; Prov. 1:7). Fear. As the Word of God becomes established in the heart, reverence for God will be seen in the life. Those who are devoted to God’s fear are delivered from other fear.

My reproach. Probably a reference to the scorn which the psalmist feels men would manifest toward him if he failed to live up to his profession, or a reference to the displeasure of God at his waywardness. However, the fear (from the Heb. yagar) mentioned in this verse is very different from the godly fear (Heb. yir’ah, “holy reverence”) to which the psalmist makes reference in v. 38. Good. God’s judgments are good, and they should not be brought into disrepute through any misconduct on the part of those who claim to order their lives by them.

Quicken me. The psalmist needed new power to meet new emergencies, so he asked for revivifying strength (see v. 37). In thy righteousness. Those who are clothed with the righteousness of Christ are allied with heaven. They will constantly be receiving fresh endowments of physical and mental powers (DA 827).

Mercies. Heb. chesed, “divine love” (see Additional Note on Ps. 36). The supreme evidence of the love that God had for us is in the gift of His Son for the salvation of the human race (1 John 4:9, 10). Were it not for God’s merciful love no man could be saved. According to thy word. In the Word of God the way of salvation is made so clear that none need miss it. “God has spoken in the plainest language upon every subject that affects the salvation of the soul” (EGW RH Feb. 5, 1901). The Scriptures from Genesis to Revelation are a commentary on God’s love and mercy as these attributes operate, bringing salvation to sinners.

Wherewith to answer. Compare 1 Peter 3:15. A victorious Christian is in himself the greatest argument in favor of true godliness (see GW 122).

Take not the word. This verse seems to be connected with v. 42. If so, the psalmist prays that when he speaks in defense of his faith, he may speak with freedom and in a manner worthy of his high profession.

At liberty. Literally, “in a broad place.” There is nothing restricted or narrow about obeying the law of God. It has been well said that obedience to law is liberty. There is no bondage in true holiness (see on Prov. 3:1). But to the unconverted man, God’s presence appears as a constant restraint, and God’s character an expression of “Thou shalt not.”

Before kings. The man who lives in the company of the King of kings need not fear the presence of an earthly ruler. Compare the experiences of Daniel (Dan. 5:17), Nehemiah (Neh. 2:1–7), and Paul (Acts 26:27).

Delight myself. See on Ps. 40:8. Men often think of commands as calculated to engender the opposite of joy, but not so with God’s commands. He who made us knows what is for our highest good.

Lift up. Possibly a reference to lifting up the hands in prayer (see Ps. 28:2).

Caused me to hope. The words of God are a solid foundation upon which men may safely build their hope (see Matt. 7:24–27). The Lord not only has given us His Word, but has also implanted hope in our hearts in that blessed Word.

For. Better, “that.” God’s Word is a solace in every time of trial. Those who are in need of comfort will find a never-failing supply in the Word of God. Even if the divine solace does not remove the affliction, it will lift the distressed above the affliction.

Proud. Heb. zedim, “insolent,” “presumptuous.” These godless souls scorned and ridiculed the psalmist for his belief in God, but he refused to swerve from obedience to the law of God. The wicked delight in mocking the righteous, but the mockery, far from disheartening, should serve to strengthen the resolve of the righteous to follow God’s commandments.

Old. Heb. ‘olam, an expression denoting a time of long duration without necessarily any reference to perpetuity (see on Ex. 12:14; 21:6). Comforted myself. To recall the Lord’s dealings with His saints in former times is a source of never-failing solace and of constant comfort. It is fitting that we should review from time to time the providential leadings of the Lord in our own past experience. This will give us present courage and future hope.

Horror. Heb. zal‘aphah, “irritation,” “indignation.” As the psalmist thought of the wicked who did not observe God’s law, he was seized with indignation. He was amazed that men could be so callous and careless. That the wicked mocked him did not seem to cause him as great concern or alarm as the fact that they were forsaking the law. He knew that eventually they would be destroyed because of this.

My pilgrimage. Pilgrim songs cheer the lonely wayfarer (see Ed 167, 168). The psalmist had composed many such hymns and delighted to sing them. We are pilgrims on this earth. Our true home is heaven, and even now we can sing the songs of that fair domain. The theme of our songs should be that of the psalmist, the wonderful character of God as revealed in the law.

In the night. The sleepless hours of the night may be profitably spent in meditating upon God and His law. On the importance of meditation see on v. 15.

This I had. Literally, “this was to me,” that is, “this came to me,” “this happened to me.” The psalmist had this comfort, this courage, this power to sing, and this hope, because he was obeying God’s precepts. All of these blessings come in the path of obedience.

My portion. Compare Ps. 16:5; 73:26. The Christian’s greatest possession is his God.

Intreated thy favour. Compare Ps. 45:12.

Thought on my ways. Self-examination is essential to Christian growth. The formation of a noble Christian character is not an easy matter. We must criticize ourselves closely and not allow one unfavorable trait to go uncorrected (see COL 331). The reason many fall so readily into temptation is that they do not take their sins to heart and mourn over them.

I made haste. In view of his past the psalmist (see v. 59) turned with all speed from his own evil way to the path of righteousness. When conviction comes to us, it is well that we promptly obey. Delay is dangerous. Procrastination is the thief not only of time but also of eternity.

Have robbed. Literally, “have surrounded.” Wicked men had banded together and encircled him, so that there seemed to be no way of escape. They could not, however, keep him away from God, nor God away from him. The consciousness of his fidelity to the law gave him courage in the face of his foes.

At midnight. The hours of midnight darkness, while others slept and all was peaceful and quiet, were spent in praise and devotion (see on v. 55).

Companion. Those who love God find their dearest friends among God’s people. Like attracts like, and a man is known by the company he selects.

Full of thy mercy. There is no place where God’s loving-kindness is not found. We may be exiled from home, but no power can banish us from the loving care of God.

Dealt well with. As the psalmist reviews his life, he feels that God has been good to him. Although at times he had passed through difficult and trying experiences, the Lord had always been by his side.

Good judgment. David desired delicate moral discernment and good taste in all the affairs of life. These qualities are gifts of the Spirit, granted to those who seek to bring their lives into complete harmony with the revealed will of God.

Afflicted. Many of our greatest spiritual lessons and our most precious experiences are found in the valley of affliction. “The tree roots more fast That hath withstood the winter blast!” Went astray. The suffering through which the psalmist passed brought him back to the right way (see on Ps. 38:3).

Good. Even in affliction men may trace the goodness of God. Fretful repinings are both sinful and unreasonable (see 5T 313, 314).

Forged. Literally, “smeared,” “besmirched.”

Fat as grease. Perhaps designating the hearts of these wicked men as insensible to the finer things of the spiritual life. While others indulged in sensual pleasures, the psalmist found his delight in meditating upon the law.

Good for me. Although the affliction often comes from evil men, it is overruled by God for good (see on Ps. 38:3). Though the sorrow and suffering seem hard to bear, the lessons learned from such experiences are invaluable in the development of the Christian character.

Gold and silver. The value of money is not to be compared with the value of truth. Worldly possessions often disappear, but no one can deprive us of the blessings that come from obeying God’s law.

Fashioned. Or, “established” (see Deut. 32:6). Inasmuch as God had made his bodily frame, David asks the Lord to perfect his spiritual understanding.

Will be glad. The righteous will rejoice when they see the marvelous transformation that God has wrought in the psalmist. Those who radiate hope are a source of joy to others.

Right. All God’s laws are in perfect conformity with the standard of righteousness. Faithfulness. God is faithful. He overrules affliction for purposes of mercy (see Lam. 3:33). He never asks us to endure more than we can bear (see 1 Cor. 10:13).

Comfort. See on v. 50.

Live. See Acts 17:28.

Proud. Heb. zedim (see on v. 51).

Sound. Heb. tamim, “complete,” “blameless” (see on v. 1). A blameless heart is more important than the high esteem of friends. “Completeness” of experience comes through a union with Christ, who supplies enabling power for obedience (Rom. 8:1–4). Only those whose hearts are purified from defilement will be able to stand in the trials of the last days (see GC 620). Outward profession will be of no avail without the inward possession of the Spirit of Christ.

Fainteth. Heb. kalah, literally, “to come to an end.” When used in connection with “soul” the expression means “to be consumed with longing.”

Fail. Heb. kalah (see on v. 81). The eyes too are consumed with longing as the looked-for hope is deferred.

Bottle. Some water containers were anciently made of skin. David likens himself to a dried-up or smoke-shriveled skin bottle.

How many? Compare Ps. 90:10, 12.

Pits. The figure is borrowed from the pits used by hunters to catch their prey. The enemy was endeavoring by every possible means to entrap David (see Jer. 18:20, 22). After thy law. That is, according to Thy law.

Faithful. God’s commandments, like His character, are faithful (see on v. 75).

Almost consumed. The psalmist determined that nothing that men could do to him would divert him from his purpose of obeying God’s holy precepts. God honors the man who is prepared to die rather than deviate from the right way.

Quicken me. Or, “revive me.”

Settled. God’s word is settled for all time and is unchangeable. It is high above the accidents of chance and stands fast both in heaven and in earth. Man’s teachings concerning the word may change, but the word stands immovable.

It abideth. The constancy of nature may be considered an assurance of God’s faithfulness in His dealings with His children. God is faithful to His promises in all ages, at all times, and in all places.

Ordinances. Heb. mishpaṭim, “decisions,” or “judgments” (see on v. 7). Heaven and earth obey the decrees of their Creator. From the mightiest creature to the minutest insect, from the largest sun to the smallest atom, all are obedient to the Omnipotent God (see 8T 259, 260).

Perished. In God’s revelation of Himself David received new hope and fresh courage, which revived his drooping spirit. The same word that preserves the heavens and the earth will also preserve and sustain God’s people in their time of greatest trial and deepest distress.

Never forget. After we have once felt the quickening power of God’s Word we should never go back on our experience. Forgetfulness of God’s leading is displeasing to God and brings discouragement to us. “We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way of the Lord has led us” (TM 31).

I am thine. Compare 1 John 3:1.

Consider. The power in the Word enabled the psalmist to be victorious over all the plots of his enemies. If the enemy of souls is unable to detract our minds from thinking and meditating upon the Holy Word, he will be unsuccessful in his warfare against us.

Perfection. Heb. tiklah, a word occurring only here, and hence of doubtful shade of meaning. Tiklah comes from the root kalah, meaning “to end,” “to complete,” “to finish,” and hence may designate “a boundary,” “a limit.” The LXX has peras, which means precisely this. Apparently the psalmist saw a limitation to everything human, but by contrast the revelation of God appeared unfathomable. Exceeding broad. There is no end to the treasures to be found in contemplating the great truths contained in God’s law. We can never exhaust its theme. It is like a fountain that never runs dry. It is a perfect representation of divine holiness, and we are led to acknowledge how imperfect we are when we judge our lives by its exalted standards.

How love I! We may read, hear, speak, and preach about God’s law, but unless we love its precepts, no profit will accrue. Love and law are closely associated. “Love is the fulfilling of the law” (Rom. 13:10). Only in a heart where love dwells can the law of God be truly reverenced and obeyed.

Wiser. He who guides his life by God’s precepts is truly wise. He who is taught of God has a practical wisdom with which no enemy of truth can compete (see Ed 124; CW 175).

The ancients. Those who apply themselves diligently to a study of God’s Word have more real knowledge than the aged philosopher who has not stooped to drink at the source of all true wisdom (see on v. 98).

Refrained. David endeavored to avoid that which would hinder his spiritual progress. The bypaths of sin may be smooth and flowery, but those who are allured by them forsake the Word of God.

Sweet. Not only had the psalmist listened to the words of God; he had fed upon them. They were sweeter than honey to him (see Ps. 19:10).

Understanding. The man of true understanding detests sin and falsehood, and loves righteousness and truth.

Lamp. The Word of God illuminates the way so that men may walk safely in the spiritual darkness of this world. He who has this light to guide him need not stumble even though his path is beset with evil (see 2 Peter 1:19).

I will perform. The psalmist pledged to obey the law, and manifested great care in carrying out this pledge. Similarly we should put forth every effort to cooperate with God and to keep every worth-while resolution of the heart.

Afflicted. Service to God does not guarantee freedom from difficulties or sufferings (Phil. 1:29). Trials develop noble characters.

Of my mouth. Evidently offerings of thanksgiving and prayer. The writer pleads with the Lord to accept these as he offers them willingly. The Lord delights in voluntary offerings.

In my hand. A figure of peril (see 1 Sam. 19:5). The psalmist expresses his resolve not to turn aside to find safety in sin and thus forget the law; he will risk his life, if need be, for the sake of the law.

Ellen G. White

Inclined mine heart. See on Ps. 66:18.

Hiding place. When we are beset with temptation we can find our refuge in God. When the darts of the enemy are being hurled at us, we can turn them aside by the “shield of faith” (Eph. 6:16). When we are afflicted by gloom and discouragement, we can always find hope in God’s Word.

Depart from me. See 1 Cor. 5:9; 2 Thess. 3:14. David is anxious not to be in the company of the wicked, for they stunt his spiritual growth. It is well to cultivate the friendship of those whose influence elevates to a higher level of spirituality.

That I may live. The psalmist felt that he was so dependent upon God’s sustaining power that he could not live without it. Not be ashamed. We need never be ashamed of our hope, for it rests upon the sure foundation of God’s Word (see Rom. 5:5; Phil. 1:20; 1 John 2:28).

Continually. The ability to persevere to the end comes through divine power (see Jude 24).

Trodden down. Or, “rejected,” “tossed aside.” By their own choice the wicked destroy themselves (see 5T 120; cf. Hosea 13:9). They have no desire to walk with God, and God has no alternative other than to destroy them.

Like dross. The dross and the precious metal are together now, but soon there will come a day of separation, when the Refiner will accomplish His work of purification (Mal. 3:3; cf. Matt. 13:30).

Am afraid. See on Ps. 19:9; Prov. 1:7.

Judgment and justice. In the matter of which David was accused his conscience was clear. He had endeavored to be just in his dealings with his fellow men. He had done the best he could, and confidently expected that the Lord would answer his prayer. He appealed to the great Judge to be delivered from the injustice of his oppressors.

Be surety. Compare Gen. 43:9.

Word of thy righteousness. The psalmist longed to hear the righteous judgment of God concerning him. His enemies had maligned his character and tried to bring disrepute upon him, but he knew that God would speak justly concerning him.

Thy servant. The psalmist delighted to call himself the “servant” of God (see Ps. 19:11, 13; 27:9; 69:17; etc.).

To work. The wicked have gone to such depths in disobedience that David feels the Lord should interpose and bring swift judgment upon them. However, God is long- suffering and slow to destroy anyone. He longs for all to repent and turn from their evil way (see Eze. 33:11; 2 Peter 3:9).

Ellen G. White

Above fine gold. The best of earthly possessions are not to be compared with the treasures of God’s Word.

Every false way. A love for truth is accompanied by a hatred for falsehood. Truth and falsehood are mutually exclusive. The very fact that we love the truth causes us to hate error. “When we are clothed with the righteousness of Christ, we shall have no relish for sin” (EGW RH March 18, 1890).

Wonderful. pela’oth, a term frequently employed of the revelation of God’s power in miraculous deeds (see Ex. 15:11; Ps. 77:11, 14). The words of God and the acts of God are closely allied.

Simple. See on Ps. 19:7. Those in need of instruction, who sense their lack, are given discernment by a study of the Word (see on Prov. 1:4).

Ellen G. White

As thou usest to do. Literally, “according to judgment,” possibly in the sense of “according to the right of.” Those who love the name of God have a right to call upon Him. The Lord is pleased when we bring our petitions to Him and claim His promises.

Oppression. David knew from experience what oppression was. During his early life he had passed through many trials and difficulties. He prayed that he might be delivered from anything that would hinder his keeping God’s precepts.

Face to shine. See on Num. 6:25. The man who is so blessed as to catch a glimpse of the radiance of God’s countenance will be lifted above the gloom and sadness of earth (see 2 Cor. 3:18).

Rivers of waters. An Oriental hyperbole for profuse weeping. David’s indignation (vs. 118, 119) because of the sins of the wicked has given place to pity and sympathy for them in their blindness.

Hast commanded. A divine authority has formed the testimonies, and they bear the impress of their Maker. It is not for man to question these royal commands. They are righteous and faithful, as is the Lord who proclaimed them.

My zeal hath consumed me. See on Ps. 69:9.

Very pure. Literally, “exceedingly refined.” In the Word of God there is no mixture of error.

Small and despised. David was willing to place a low estimate upon himself. Great men are never great in their own estimation.

Truth. The law of God is not only true, but the truth itself; not only does it contain the truth, it is the truth. Those who are obedient to this law are walking in the truth, but those who disobey are living in error and falsehood.

My delights. The psalmist’s joy was not dependent upon outward circumstances, but sprang from an inward peace, a peace derived from a study of the Word of God.

Everlasting. Men change their laws to conform to changing standards, but the law of God is unchangeable. Give me understanding. Man can truly understand the purpose of his being only when he lives in harmony with the law of God (see John 7:17).

My whole heart. David’s earnest prayer sprang from a longing that consumed his whole being (see 4T 534). Heart prayers reach heaven, whereas lip service is unavailing.

I prevented the dawning. That is, “I preceded the dawning.” Before daybreak the psalmist directed his appeals to God for help (see Mark 1:35).

Prevent. Or, “precede” (see on v. 147). The night was commonly divided into three watches (Lam. 2:19; see on Judges 7:19; 1 Sam. 11:11). The psalmist likens himself to one listed for duty during these night watches. Before the time of his appointment he is awake and meditating upon God’s Word.

According to. We should ask God to answer our prayers not according to our desires but in the light of His all-wise providence.

Near. An antithesis: the wicked draw near with their temptations (v. 150); God is also near, but to help.

Consider mine affliction. David was passing through severe trial and appealed his case to God for help. No child of God in affliction ever cries to the Lord in vain. God may not grant the desired deliverance, but He will provide courage and faith to endure the test (see 2 Cor. 12:7–9).

Plead my cause. The psalmist and his enemies are represented as on trial. David is asking God to be his advocate and to take his side in the controversy.

Far from the wicked. Every step the sinner takes along the path of evil removes him farther from God’s saving grace. Unless he alters his course, he finally reaches the place where mercy no longer lingers (see 5T 119, 120).

Tender mercies. Or, “compassions.”

Was grieved. Heb. qut, “to feel a loathing.” As the psalmist watched the ways of the wicked he was repelled by their conduct.

From the beginning. Heb. ro’sh, literally, “head,” here probably in the sense of “sum” as ro’sh is translated in Ps. 139:17.

Princes. See v. 23. The persons who should have sympathized with David were among his most bitter opponents. These royal leaders were appointed to avenge the oppressed and to protect the helpless. Instead of performing their duty, they spent their time persecuting the righteous.

Great spoil. Compare Isa. 9:3.

Seven times. The number seven signifies completeness. The praise offered to God by the psalmist did not depend upon his feelings or his circumstances. In trial, in sorrow, or in joy his voice was uplifted in thankful hymns of praise.

Great peace. Though there is turmoil and strife without, there is peace in the heart of him who loves the law of God. Nothing shall offend them. Literally, “nothing is to them a stumbling block.” Those who love the law have no occasion of stumbling. They walk with firm and steady step along the straight path of God’s law and do not turn aside to the bypaths of sin.

Ellen G. White

I have hoped. David fixed his hope upon God. He looked to Him alone for salvation, and put forth earnest effort to obey the commandments.

Before thee. There is nothing hidden from God’s sight (Heb. 4:13). How comforting the thought that when we are misunderstood by men, our ways are known to God!

Supplication. Heb. techinnah, “a supplication for favor.”

Utter. Heb. naba‘, “to bubble,” or “pour forth.” The psalmist desires that from his life and his lips will ever proceed songs of grateful praise.

Righteousness. Not only are the commandments right in themselves, they are the essence of righteousness. “The law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just [literally, “righteous”], and good” (Rom. 7:12). This law is a transcript of the holy and righteous character of God. We should pattern our lives after its instruction.

Chosen. To man has been given freedom of choice (see Deut. 30:19). Happy are they who, like David, choose the precepts of God as their guide.

It shall praise thee. David is asking God for prolonged life, not to satisfy any selfish desire, but to spend his days in bearing witness to the love of God.

Lost sheep. Compare Isa. 53:6. When a sheep strays from the fold it seldom finds its way back without help. Like all the rest of us, the psalmist had wandered into forbidden paths, but the Lord sought him and brought him home again. Seek thy servant. The good shepherd does not return from his search empty-handed. The way may be long and arduous, the path rough and thorny, but the shepherd perseveres and does not give up until he finds his lost sheep (Matt. 18:12–14; Luke 15:4– 7).