Introduction

Psalm 119:1–16: Today we begin reading Psalm 119, the longest psalm in the Bible, a psalm that praises God’s law or instruction. Each of the psalm’s twenty-two sections contains eight verses, and each verse begins with the Hebrew letter that names its section. For the next eleven days we will be reading two sections of the psalm (16 verses). The opening of Psalm 119 describes those who follow the law of the LORD as happy and deserving approval.

Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 119:12

I praise you, O LORD; teach me your ways.

Reading

119 Happy are those whose lives are faultless,
    who live according to the law of the Lord.
2 Happy are those who follow his commands,
    who obey him with all their heart.
3 They never do wrong;
    they walk in the Lord’s ways.
4 Lord, you have given us your laws
    and told us to obey them faithfully.
5 How I hope that I shall be faithful
    in keeping your instructions!
6 If I pay attention to all your commands,
    then I will not be put to shame.
7 As I learn your righteous judgments,
    I will praise you with a pure heart.
8 I will obey your laws;
    never abandon me!

9 How can young people keep their lives pure?
    By obeying your commands.
10 With all my heart I try to serve you;
    keep me from disobeying your commandments.
11 I keep your law in my heart,
    so that I will not sin against you.
12 I praise you, O Lord;
    teach me your ways.
13 I will repeat aloud
    all the laws you have given.
14 I delight in following your commands
    more than in having great wealth.
15 I study your instructions;
    I examine your teachings.
16 I take pleasure in your laws;
    your commands I will not forget.

Reflect

Today’s passage reflects the ways in which God’s law encourages the living of a “pure” life (verse 9). Here “pure” is an image for a life that is free from sin and consistently in keeping with God’s will. What does it mean to you to live a “pure” life? How does that apply to your spiritual life? How does that apply to your relationships and tasks in life?

Pray

Holy God, I worship you with all my heart. Your instruction is the sure way to happiness and I eagerly seek to understand your teachings. Help me to keep my life pure by obeying your commands. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Psalm 119:17–32: The psalmist is determined to obey the law of the LORD.