Psalm 119:9-16 – The Greatness and Cleansing Power of God’s Word
(by Eugene Woon)
This stanza (v. 9-16) is named after the second letter of the Hebrew alphabet, “Beth” out of the 22 letters. “Beth” in Hebrew, means “House”. Whereby the word “Bethlehem” means “House of Bread”, the birthplace of Jesus Christ, the “Bread of Life”! In this passage, the psalmist shows his passion for God’s word in many different ways. The “Word, Commandments, Statutes, Judgment, Testimonies, Precepts and the Ways” are used interchangeably. It provides the exhortations to keep one’s way pure with the right attitude and following godly principles and precepts.
The writer cited “How can a young man cleanse his ways? By taking heed, according to God’s word.” (v 9). Herein, God’s word has the cleansing power from sin, guiding him to walk obediently, helping him to stay pure and upright when he obeys them. He diligently seek God with all his heart and treasures on His word, and not wander from His commandments, but instead meditates on His precepts (the word).
So, memorization on God’s word becomes a lifestyle, it serves as a defense against the folly of sin. He prays that the Lord will teach him the word, and declare all the judgment (the laws) of God that he might have wisdom to apply God’s truth (v 10-13). He rejoices in God’s word more than in all riches, fame or power this world possesses. He meditates day and night on His precepts (the laws) that leads to obedience and remembrance. “I will take great joy and comfort in His statutes (the word) and never forget them (v 14-16).
In summary, God’s word brings blessings, wisdom, and understanding. His word is like a lamp to our feet and a light to our path: and the entirety of His word is truth. In order for us to bear testimonies on God’s word, we need to meditate and keep His word in our heart to live a consistent lifestyle, i.e – “to walk the talk” and be doers of the word, and not hearers only (James 1:22). Be still and know that He is God (Psalms 46:10). It’s not how many times we go through the words, but rather, how many times the words go through us. Just like the psalmist, we need to express our appreciation on the faithfulness, the goodness, mercies, righteousness and character of God; and in so doing, stand in awe of the word of God. Amen.
Let’s Read Psalm 119:9-16
9 How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.
10 With my whole heart I have sought You;
Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
11 Your word I have hidden in my heart,
That I might not sin against You.
12 Blessed are You, O LORD!
Teach me Your statutes.
13 With my lips I have declared
All the judgments of Your mouth.
14 I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies,
As much as in all riches.
15 I will meditate on Your precepts,
And contemplate Your ways.
16 I will delight myself in Your statutes;
I will not forget Your word.
Let’s Pray
Lord God Almighty, we adore You. We honor and glorify Your Name in the highest. You are magnificent and glorious, Your testimonies are wonderful, therefore our soul keeps them. The entrance of Your word gives light, it gives understanding to the simple. For Your word is living and powerful, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of our soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
About the Heavenly Devotion channel
The Heavenly Devotion channel is dedicated to encouraging you to listen to Bible Scriptures and pray with the Scriptures. They are inspired by the call of service as expressed and exemplified by Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 9:12-15.
“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrew 4:12 NKJV)
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