This is part one of some studies in Psalm 119.

Psalm 119 is a giant among the Psalms and the longest chapter in the Bible (176 verses).

• There are eight names for the Word of God in this chapter.

        (1) Law                            (5) Commandments

        (2) Testimonies                 (6) Judgments

        (3) Precepts                      (7) Word

        (4) Statutes                      (8) Ordinances 

• There are twenty-two sections in this chapter; eight verses in each section.
• Each section is divided by the Hebrew alphabet.  This made it easier to remember, especially for Hebrew children.
• The theme of this Psalm is the power of God’s Word in the life of a believer.

The first section, verses 1-8, begins with the phrase “How blessed…”  The psalmist gives six conditions if we want to be blessed by God.

1.  Be Blameless (v. 1).

This is not talking about being sinless, because that would be impossible.  This means to be above reproach in your character.  That is, you deal with sin and live in such a way that others cannot bring an accusation against you.

John 1:47 – Jesus said Nathaniel had “no deceit” in him.

 

2.  Be Wholehearted (v. 2).

In our commitment and service, we are to seek the Lord with all our heart.

Proverbs 3:5-6 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart.

Psalm 27:8 – Seek the Lord with your whole heart.

 

3.  Be Consistent (v. 3).

Our conduct is consistent with what we say we believe.  The opposite is to be hypocritical.  To live a life of integrity is to be consistent in private and public with what we believe.

 

4.  Be Diligent (v. 4).

We must keep the Lord’s “precepts…diligently.”  The danger that always leads to failure is depending on our own abilities instead of the Holy Spirit of God. This is a must because the real battle is on the inside.

 

5.  Be Concerned (vv. 5-6).

We should be concerned about…

·  Applying what God has said (v. 5).

·  Avoiding shame and embarrassment (v.  6).

 

6.  Be Committed (vv. 7-8).

We should be committed to…

·  Thanksgiving (v. 7).  This is the natural result of being in God’s Book, the Bible.

·  Obedience (v. 8).  This should be the desire of every Christian.

 

This is God’s road map that leads to His blessings.  To live any other way is foolish.