Introduction
Psalm 119:81–96: This passage begins to suggest that the psalmist is suffering deeply. Proud people seek to entrap him but he trusts in God’s Word. While expressing a sense of impatience for help, the psalmist also attests to God’s faithfulness.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 119:89
Your word, O LORD, will last forever; it is eternal in heaven.
Reading
81 I am worn out, Lord, waiting for you to save me;
I place my trust in your word.
82 My eyes are tired from watching for what you promised,
while I ask, “When will you help me?”
83 I am as useless as a discarded wineskin;
yet I have not forgotten your commands.
84 How much longer must I wait?
When will you punish those who persecute me?
85 The proud, who do not obey your law,
have dug pits to trap me.
86 Your commandments are all trustworthy;
people persecute me with lies—help me!
87 They have almost succeeded in killing me,
but I have not neglected your commands.
88 Because of your constant love be good to me,
so that I may obey your laws.
89 Your word, O Lord, will last forever;
it is eternal in heaven.
90 Your faithfulness endures through all the ages;
you have set the earth in place, and it remains.
91 All things remain to this day because of your command,
because they are all your servants.
92 If your law had not been the source of my joy,
I would have died from my sufferings.
93 I will never neglect your instructions,
because by them you have kept me alive.
94 I am yours—save me!
I have tried to obey your commands.
95 The wicked are waiting to kill me,
but I will meditate on your laws.
96 I have learned that everything has limits;
but your commandment is perfect.
Reflect
Today’s reading reflects a tension between the psalmist’s trust in God’s promises and his desire for immediate relief from suffering. He is open with God about his struggles, expressing his frustration and begging for relief. How is it an act of faith to share this kind of frustration with God? What has been your experience in sharing times of pain with God?
Pray
Lord, you are eternal, and your word will last forever. You remain faithful in every generation, and the earth you created will keep standing firm. Your law is my source of hope and joy. Hear my cries for help and ground me in your teachings so that I may to stand firm in your promises. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 119:97–112: The psalmist expresses love for the law of the LORD.
