Introduction
Psalm 119:145–160: The psalmist seeks God’s help day and night. He relies on God’s law for courage and safety. Yet he is still oppressed by people in power. The psalmist puts his hope and his trust in God and continues to praise God even in the midst of trouble. He relies on God’s mercy and trusts in God’s love.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 119:151
You are near to me, LORD, and all your commands are permanent.
Reading
145 With all my heart I call to you;
answer me, Lord, and I will obey your commands!
146 I call to you;
save me, and I will keep your laws.
147 Before sunrise I call to you for help;
I place my hope in your promise.
148 All night long I lie awake,
to meditate on your instructions.
149 Because your love is constant, hear me, O Lord;
show your mercy, and preserve my life!
150 My cruel persecutors are coming closer,
people who never keep your law.
151 But you are near to me, Lord,
and all your commands are permanent.
152 Long ago I learned about your instructions;
you made them to last forever.
153 Look at my suffering, and save me,
because I have not neglected your law.
154 Defend my cause, and set me free;
save me, as you have promised.
155 The wicked will not be saved,
for they do not obey your laws.
156 But your compassion, Lord, is great;
show your mercy and save me!
157 I have many enemies and oppressors,
but I do not fail to obey your laws.
158 When I look at those traitors, I am filled with disgust,
because they do not keep your commands.
159 See how I love your instructions, Lord.
Your love never changes, so save me!
160 The heart of your law is truth,
and all your righteous judgments are eternal.
Reflect
What is the source of the psalmist’s distress? What does the psalmist ask of God? How does the psalmist express hope and trust in God? What do you need to ask of God today?
Pray
Compassionate God, hear my prayer. I place my hope in your promises and I know you are near to me. No matter my circumstances today, your love never changes. Help me now as I seek to be obedient to your righteous and enduring commands. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 119:161–176: Love for the law of the LORD.