Psalm 119 - Gimel

In this stanza, the psalmist continues to express his desire to walk in God's ways. Within that passion, three ideas emerge. First, the psalmist admits his ignorance. He is aware that he still has a lot to learn about God's paths. He asks God to open his eyes (v. 18) so that he can capture the truths of the Bible. In verse 19, he alludes to the fact that some things are still hidden from him. Verse 20 expresses his soul-crushing longing to know and see these truths.

The second concept concerns the psalmist's observance. He notices (v. 21) what happens to those who reject God's ways. Life does not go well for them, and he does not want that judgment for himself (v. 22). In fact, he desires the opposite. He is so desirous of God's blessing that he wants to closely embrace the Scriptures in spite of what those around him may do or say (vs. 23-24).

Third, the passage reveals the psalmist's reliance. He cannot do either of the first two things without God's help. He cannot learn what he does not know if God does not show it to him. Verses 18-19 especially focus on the need for God's illumination of His truth. The psalmist needs God to open his eyes to truth and to reveal His commandments.

Neither can the psalmist remain faithful in the midst of the wicked unless God helps him. Verses 17 and 22 record prayers related more to the ability to live faithfully. The psalmist needs God's help to keep His Word, and he needs God to respond to him as he seeks to obey.

Any Christian can relate to the ignorance. There is always more and deeper truth to be learned from the Bible. No one has learned it all.

A Christian can also relate to the observance regarding the wicked. At times, those people may seem to escape God's judgment, but their reprieve is only temporary. While avoidance of wrath should never be the only motivation for doing right, someone who truly loves God will desire the peaceful life of blessing that comes from doing the right thing.

Finally, every Christian must be aware of his need to rely on God. Only with God's help can one know what to do and continue faithfully on that pathway.

In terms of Christian growth, a Christian should be never satisfied, never complacent, never self-reliant.

"Deal bountifully with Your servant, that I may live and keep Your word." Psalm 119:17 (NASB)